JOHN GEORGE MAYER, dealer in wines, liquors and beer, also bottled beer, and makes a specialty of charging soda fountains, Troy; was born in Bavaria, Germany, March 21, 1837, where he received instruction in the German schools until 15 years of age; then came to America, arriving in New York City July 2, 1852; thence he came West to Hamilton Co., Ohio, and worked on a farm until 1854; afterward he located in Cincinnati, and followed the occupation of a barber for a number of years; came to Troy in 1861, and followed his trade until 1867, when he engaged in the confectionery business; and in 1869, changed to a "grocer;" was connected for several years with Joseph Henney in the Troy Brewery; in 1878, commenced his present business, now bottling from four to seven barrels of beer per week; he also makes a specialty of charging soda fountains, being the only one in Troy doing that business. Is a Republican in politics, and connected with the Fire Department, of which he is a very prominent member, being now Assistant Chief of the Fire Department of Troy, in which capacity he has served for some years, always taking an active part in its management. Married Anna Eitel, July 26, 1859, who was born in Germany and came to America in 1852; are the parents of seven children, five of whom are living.