John J. Brennan, store owner and city commissioner in later years, built this large two-story brick residence in 1899 and resided there for 24 years. Located at 560 3rd Ave. N., it occupies the northwest corner of Third Avenue North and Seventh Street.

Brennan and Charles Furlong operated the Furlong & Brennan store here from the late 1890’s until 1920 when it was closed. The store which featured groceries and general merchandise, was located at the northeast corner of the City Square.

The Brennan house originally had a large entrance hall, sitting room, parlor, living room, dining room, bedroom, kitchen and half bath on the first floor; five bedrooms and bath on the second floor. The Brennan family lived in the home until 1923 when they built a new brick house at Sixth Avenue North and Tenth Street. The house at 560 3rd Ave. N. has changed hands a number of times and is now owned by D. R. Gumm of Fort Dodge. The house has six apartments that are rented out by the Gumms. A large open porch extends along the south and east sides of the house.

Brennan was born in Kingston-on-Hudson, N.Y., and came to the Fort Dodge area with his parents in 1881. The family settled in Elkhorn Township where they farmed and raised cattle. In 1886 Brennan’s father, also named John, purchased six lots north of the Pleasant Valley.