Baker, James, active 1733

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James Baker (1739-1825), son of James Baker (1713-1776) and Priscilla Paul Baker (1718?-1776), graduated from Harvard College in 1760. After teaching school, studying theology, and serving an apprenticeship to a physician, Baker opened an apothecary shop in Dorchester, Mass., which expanded into a general store. In 1769 he married Lydia Bowman ( -1816), daughter of Rev. Jonathan Bowman (1703-1775) of Dorchester. They had three children: Edmund (1770-1846); Elizabeth (1774-1805); and Lydia (1777-1851).

Having helped Daniel Vose establish a chocolate manufacturing business in 1772, Baker took on Nathaniel Blake shortly before Vose withdrew from the business in 1780. Baker then closed his general store and devoted all his attention to making Baker's Chocolate. Dr. Baker retired from the business in 1804, leaving it entirely in the hand of his son, Edmund. The business had been prosperous, but was destined to achieve national prominence under guidance of Dr. Baker's grandson, Walter Baker (1792-1852).

From the description of Business records, 1761-1823. (American Antiquarian Society). WorldCat record id: 191259136

Archival Resources
Role Title Holding Repository
referencedIn Vol. iii. (ff. 632). Home Correspondence Apr.-Oct. 1733 British Library
creatorOf Baker, James, 1739-1825. Business records, 1761-1823 Gadsden Public Library
referencedIn Baker, James, 1739-1825. Business records, 1761-1823 Gadsden Public Library
Role Title Holding Repository
Relation Name
associatedWith Baker, Ebenezer, 1743-1798 person
associatedWith Baker, Edmund, 1770-1846. person
associatedWith Baker, James, 1739-1825. person
associatedWith Baker, James, 1761-1823. person
Place Name Admin Code Country
Dorchester (Boston, Mass.)
Massachusetts--Boston
Subject
Chocolate
Chocolate industry
General stores
Mills and mill-work
Occupation
Activity

Person

Active 1733

Birth 1739

Death 1825

Birth 1761

Death 1823

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