The roster of city officials of Alameda contains the name of no more worthy, consicentious and capable public servant than Frank E. Browning, who since May 1, 1907, has filled the position of city clerk with credit and ability. He was born in Livingston county, Michigan, September 20, 1866, but he is nevertheless a representative of one of California's pioneer families, his birth having occurred while his parents were visiting in the east. His grandfather moved from New York to Livingston county, Michigan, in the early '30s and his father, Jacob Browning, came to California in 1849. He settled in San Francisco in the early days of the city's history and engaged in the teaming business there until three years before his death, which occurred in 1909. He was one of the founders of the Mechanics Institute and a member of the Vigilance Committee of San Francisco and at one time owned all of the property upon which the St. Francis hotel now stands. His death was a loss to the city, as the ranks of her honored pioneers numbered one less, and was sincerely and deeply regretted by many friends to whom his unright character and genuine personal worth had greatly endeared him. His wife, who was in her maidenhood Miss Zernah Smith, was born in Michigan, a daughter of William and Leah Smith, of Livingston county.
Frank E. Browning grew to manhood in San Francisco, acquiring his education in the grammar and high schools of that city. In 1885, after his graduation from the latter institution, he joined his father in the teaming business and for thirteen years engaged in that occupation, building up a large and representative patronage. In 1898 hee began his public career, entering the county clerk's office in San Francisco as deputy under Frank C. Jordan. After four years he came to Alameda and identified himself with the Pacific Light Company of this city, acting as collector and statement taker until April, 1907. In May of that year he was appointed city clerk of Alameda and he has served by reappointment since that time, his return to office signifying the high quality of his services and the excellent results which have attended his labors.
Mr. Browning married Miss Mabel Hussey, a daughter of George V. and Sarah A. Hussey, of San Francisco. Mr. and Mrs. Browning have become the parents of two children: George N., aged twenty-three; and Ella, eighteen. Mr. Browning is well known in local fraternal circles, holding membership in Alameda Lodge, No. 1015, B. P. O. E.; Alameda Aerie, No. 1076, F. O. E.; and Alameda Lodge, No. 509, L. O. M. He was initiated into the Masonic order according to the Scottish Rite and is now a member of Apollo Lodge, No. 396, A. F. & A. M. He was for four years secretary of the Alameda Boat Club, of which he is still a member, and he is affiliated also with the California Pioneers. He gives a great deal of his time to the conduct of the affairs of his office and has made an excellent record for probity, enterprise and ability, a record which adds to the honor and esteem in which his name has long been held in this section of the state.
Past and Present of Alameda County California, Vol. II
Published in Chicago by The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company
1914
Transcribed by Linda Jackson 8/11/2008, Pages 573-574
Alameda County Biographies ~ Archive Biography Index ~ Archive Index
Copyright © 1996-2009; This Web page is sponsored by Supporters on behalf of the California portion of The USGenWeb Project by The Administrative Team of the CAGW. Although believed to be correct as presented, if you note any corrections, changes, additions, or find that any links provided on this page are not functioning properly please contact the Archive Coordinator for prompt attention to the matter.