BRENNAN, PATRICK (deceased). - Supply and demand create trade, and in a city like Springfield, where the population is changing and the influx at times is so great, the business of handling foodstuffs is always a profitable one. Ever since the seat of the State government was moved to Springfield in 1839, the grocers of the city have flourished, and one who once held his own with the leading ones in his line, was the late Patrick Brennan. He was born in County Meath, Ireland, in 1825, a son of Thomas and Catherine Brennan, natives of Ireland, and had all the quickness and keenness of his people, combined with a genial manner and engaging way that made him friends everywhere.

After a boyhood spent in his native place, where he secured a parish school education, Patrick Brennan came to the Untied States in 1845, finally locating in Springfield. At first he found employment as a brick molder, but gradually worked his way upward until he became one of the leading grocers of the city, and was interested to a considerable extent in the pork packing industry. In all of his undertakings he showed a keen perception of values, and his success was due to his own business sagacity and unaided efforts. He was a Catholic, belonging to the Church of the Immaculate Conception, and, when his death occurred in July, 1880, his remains were interred in Cavalry Cemetery. His political affiliations with the Democratic party were pleasant, but he did not aspire to public office.

In 1860, Mr. Brennan was united in marriage in Springfield, with Ellen Smith, born in the same county as himself. Her parents came from Ireland to New Orleans, and thence to Sangamon County, where their deaths finally occurred. Mr. Brennan's parents never left their native land. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Brennan, four of whom are living: John P., of Springfield, has three children; Mary Jane, of Streator, Ill., is married and has four children; Peter F. and Ella G., both live with their mother at No. 720 East Carpenter street. Mrs. Brennan owns this pleasant residence, in which she has lived ever since her marriage. She is active in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, and is a lady who enjoys the respect of all who have the honor of her acquaintance.