James Buchanan Brady

"Diamond Jim"

1856-1917

James Buchanan Brady was an American businessman, financier and philanthropist of the Gilded Age.  He had penchant for diamonds, precious stones and jewelry plus a voracious appetite. There is a special cut of Prime Rib called the "Diamond Jim Brady Cut" which is an extra-thick portion, rib bone in.

"Diamond Jim" is known for his longtime relationship with actress and singer, Lillian Russell, born Helen Louise Leonard. It is said they would rendezvous at his home at 7 West 46th Street in Manhattan.

Lillian Russell

Circa 1898

1860-1922

Russell was an American actress and singer.  She became one of the most famous actresses and singers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, praised for beauty and style, as well as her voice and stage presence.  She was born in Clinton, Iowa though was raised in Chicago.  Her parents separated when she was 18 and she moved to New York City with her mother.  She began to perform professionally by 1879.  For many years she was the foremost singer of operettas and musical theatre in the United States performing continously through the end of the 19th century.  Russell was married four times, but her longest relationship was with Diamond Jim Brady who supported her extravagant lifestyle for four decades.  Diamond Jim was a significant owner of thoroughbred racehorses and may have influenced her decision to become involved in the sport. In  August 1906, her press agent announced she had acquired eight colts sired by a New Zealand stallion named Carbine for her new thoroughbred racing stable .

For I Love Lucy fans .. Brady is mentioned in two episodes of I Love Lucy: "The Business Manager" (season 4, episode 1) ..  Ricky to Fred: "Mr. Hickox?  He makes you look like Diamond Jim Brady!"  I Love Lucy: "Lucy Gets a Paris Gown"  (season 5, episode 20) .. Ethel calls Fred "Diamond Jim Mertz" after he warns her not to buy a new dress.