Bradley Martin

Bradley Martin (December 18, 1841 – February 5, 1913) was an American socialite known for giving the Bradley-Martin costume ball at the Waldorf Hotel in New York City on the night of February 10, 1897. Early life Martin was born on December 18, 1841, in Albany, New York. He was the son of Henry Hull Martin (1809–1886) and Anna Townsend Martin (1815–1866). His siblings included Frederick Townsend Martin (1849–1914), writer and advocate for the poor, and Henry Townsend Martin (d. 1915). His maternal grandfather was Solomon Townsend, a prominent merchant who was from an old Albany family that was related to the Long Island Townsends. His father was a prominent banker and merchant and the family was involved in Albany society. His ancestor, John Martin, accompanied Sir Francis Drake in his famous voyage around the world in 1580. Martin was educated at Union University and was a First lieutenant in the 93rd Regiment, National Guard of New York, part of the Union Army during the American Civil War. He later served as aide-de-camp to Gov. Reuben Fenton.