James Bryan

Who was James Bryan?

James Bryan was a mining entrepreneur whose efforts in concert with others brought economic development to Missouri. Bryan was a mining executive of his time. Bryan operated "Bryan's Mines" on Hazel Run, north of Big River, in SW 1/4 of Sec. 33, T. 37N. 5E. in 1806; this location is also known as "Hazel Run Lead Digging."

Bryan also attained significance when the United States Supreme Court recognized details of a land transfer from Moses Austin to Bryan in Bryan v. Kennett, the Court's ratification of the Louisiana Purchase. Bryan also donated land to the public so public buildings could then be constructed in Missouri. Bryan was also a significant land owner in Arkansas too and was recognized in a book published by the Arkansas History Commission. James also owned a plantation in Missouri.

The city of Bryan, Texas is named for him.