James G. Bradley, the well known city electrician of Council Bluffs, was born in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, May 1, 1858. In the common schools of his native city he acquired his education and at the age of twenty he removed to Troy, New York, where he lived for two years. The tide of emigration was then moving westward with great force and to his observing mind were shown great possibilities for business advancement in the west. Consequently he made his way to Council Bluffs, where he has since lived and where he has won distinction both in his public and private life. In 1884 he was appointed superintendent of the fire and police alarm telegraph department of the city and held that office for nineteen years and seven months. It is only necessary to consider his term of office to be sure that he gave entire satisfaction. He was given an opportunity for rest for two years but in April, 1908, the city felt that once more they must have his efficient service and the city council accordingly gave him his present position.

In 1892, Mr. Bradley was united in wedlock, in this city, to Bertha A. Vogeler, a daughter of G. A. Vogeler. One daughter has blessed this union, Adelaide A. Mr. Bradley is a member of the Masonic order, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Elks, the Modern Woodmen and the Woodmen of the World. His political affiliation has always been with the republican party and he has taken an active part in its campaigns since the time that he attained his majority. He has always undertaken with energy anything that would increase the prosperity of the city and add to the comfort of its inhabitants. His life has been a success and he uses his opportunities to the advantages of the community. For twenty-nine years he has been an active factor in advancing the city of Council Bluffs and during that entire time has conducted all of his affairs as to command the esteem, confidence and respect of all classes. Personally he is sociable, ever willing to accord to any one the courtesy of an interview, and although his career has not been filled with thrilling incidents, probably no biography published in this volume can serve as a better illustration to young men of the power of honesty and integrity in insuring success in public office.

[History of Pottawattamie County, Iowa, Volume 2, 1907, transcribed by C. D.]