Nathan Barnert

Nathan Barnert (September 20, 1838 – December 23, 1927) was an American businessman, philanthropist, and Democratic Party politician who served as the mayor of Paterson, New Jersey from 1883 to 1886 and 1889 to 1890.

Early life and education Nathan Barnert was born on September 20, 1838, in Posen in the Kingdom of Prussia to Meyer and Ida (née Newfelt) Barnert. The family emigrated to the United States in 1848 or 1849. Nathan was educated in Prussia and New York City.

Business career Barnert followed his father into trade as a tailor before leaving to join the California gold rush at the age of fourteen. While in California, he established business connections in San Francisco and visited the Hawaiian Kingdom and the Fraser River. However, the trip was entirely unprofitable, and he returned to New York City in 1856.