prominent tobacconist and proprietor of the billiard parlor at 220 Orange street, Nat. A. Blake, was born at Selma, Alabama, in 1858, but when he was only three years of age his parents removed to Houston, Texas, where he lived until 1886, when he came to California. His first business experience was at Houston, as a dealer in dry goods. After living two years in Los Angeles Mr. Blake went to Tacoma, Washington, for three years, then back to Texas for a short time and finally to Redlands, arriving in this city February 23, 1892. In Tacoma and Los Angeles he was engaged in the furniture business. Upon his arrival here Mr. Blake opened a real estate and insurance office in the Truesdell building, and continued in that business until the present month (November), when he purchased the tobacco and billiard stand of which he is now proprietor. Not only will the present large line of tobacco and cigars be kept up, but other stock will be added form time to time, so that the desire of any patron, however particular, can be accommodated. The billiard room is centrally located, has a fine equipment of modern tables, with quick cushions, and is kept in perfect order. Not disturbances of any kind are allowed, and any gentleman will find such regulations in force as will please the most fastidious and invite a renewal of patronage. A soda fountain and a line of choice confectionery are minor adjuncts of this popular business place.

(Source: Illustrated Redlands, 1897, p. 68.)