John Bremer Sr. moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio in 1813. He reared a family of 13 children with his wife Elizabeth, including John Jr. and Jonas. When John Sr. died in 1875, it was said that Salem Township had lost one it's best citizens.

Jonas Bremer was born on March 8, 1836. Jonas moved to California for a short period of time, where he learned the milling trade. He eventually moved back to Ohio and resided at the old family homestead. Around 1853, in partnership with his brother, John Jr., Jonas built a gristmill along the canal near Lock # 18. The Bremer Brother's Mill did extensive business during the canal days.