SOL LAZAR, merchant, of Madera, was born in Prussian in 1860.  After a brief education, at the early age of thirteen years, he cut loose from all home association, and with a friend started for the broad and free land of America.  He first found employment in Milwaukee at clerking, and he there began the study of the English language.  After a few months he started for California and settled at Firebaughs, Fresno County.  In the general merchandise store of Mr. Jake Myer, young Lazar secured a position as clerk, and he remained with Mr. Myer until 1880, when he went to Fresno Flats and started in business in general merchandise.  In 1882 Mr. Lazar went to Seattle, and after one year in the real estate business, he went to Olympia, and then opened a store, which he continued but on year.  He then went to Tulare and opened business, but was burned out in 1886.  This after many changes he came to Madera in 1887, and opened his present store with dry goods and gents furnishing goods, carrying a stock of about $12,000.

Mr. Lazar was married in San Juan in 1889 to Miss Annie Flynn, a native of California, and the family has been additionally increased by the birth of two children, Willie and Louis.  Mr. Lazar is a member of Madera Court, No. 749, Independent Order of Foresters.  Not neglecting the agricultural opportunities of this valley, Mr. Lazar has a twenty-acre ranch two miles west of town, which he has set to Malaga grapes, being the only Malaga vineyard in this locality.  He is also interested in town property and owns his residence on D street.