Our History

John Milton Brownson was an entrepreneur in the development of the Victoria area whose accomplishments include the founding of Brownson's Bank, which later became First Victoria National Bank. To the citizens of our community, John Brownson and his wife, Catherine, will be remembered for their commitment to the children of this area. Upon Catherine's death in 1932 (John having passed away in 1906), she bequeathed her estate to establish The Brownson Home for children in need. She instructed that the home provide for the clothing, shelter, food, education, medical attention, general training, and welfare of the children as well as their religious upbringing. It was Catherine's vision that The Brownson Home never be considered an orphanage, but rather a “home,” with all of the children being one family. This is the principle that continues to guide the direction of The Brownson Home today.