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(Page 560)
Francis G. Brewster was a lineal descendant of the Brewsters who crossed the ocean in the "Mayflower," of whom the Rev. Mr. Steele, of Washington, has given a faithful history. He studied medicine about the year 1785, received a certificate of license, and married Miss Mary Seeley, daughter of Josiah Seeley.
Dr. Francis G. Brewster, better known as Dr. Gilbert Brewster, may have practiced considerably in Bridegton during the early part of his professional life, but in later years he confined himself almost exclusively to the business of a druggist. He established early in the century, beyond doubt, the first pure drug store in Bridgeton, which store has remained in the hands of the Brewster family until recently, the location having been several times changed. As it was first established, it was a very small affair, upon the corner of Commerce and Atlantic Streets. Here the doctor not only sold medicines, but also prescribed for such of his friends as chose to seek his professional aid. He was succeeded in business by his son, the late Francis G. Brewster.
The doctor was a member of and a ruling elder in the Presbyterian Church. He died July 26, 1828, in the sixtieth year of his age, and was buried in the old graveyard at Bridgeton.
