John Jacob Astor established the first commercial settlement by the Americans in 1811 located on the Pacific Coast. He was known primarily as a fur trader, but he also was a well-known merchant in other areas. Mr. Astor wanted to reach potential Far Eastern Markets. However, the blockade during the War of 1812 prevented this and it was sold to the British. Soon after the war he fulfilled his goal to reach the Far Eastern Market - notably China. Mr. Astor was America's first known millionare of record and he held the market share of the fur trading business until his retirement in 1834. Found at 15th and Exchange Streets.
