Richard Bradshaw was born in Sunderland, Durham, England on Oct. 27, 1831, son of James & Elizabeth (Oyston) Bradshaw. Richard was living in New Castle on Tyne listed when he immigrated to America, arriving in New York on Apr. 30, 1854. He made his way to Andover and became employed as a Flax Dresser at Smith & Dove Co. in Frye Village. He married Ann Derby b. Nov. 1832 in Ireland, daughter of John & Ann (Innis) Derby. Richard and Ann would have four children: James O. b. June 1858 in CT, Caroline b. 1859, Richard H. b. 1862 and Ann E. b. 1864. They lived in Frye Village until the company moved operations to Abbott Village up-river in Andover.

The Bradshaws moved to Brook St. and in 1881 Richard purchased the house for $3800 at 20 Brook St. from Phebe F. Pasho, wife of George N. on Apr. 1, 1881. Pasho acquired the vacant property on Dec. 18, 1877 for $600.
Andover Townsman - June 17, 1892 p.1 - "Two double bay windows are being put on the front on the Bradshaw's house on Brook Street". The home appears to have been built as a three family home. The 1900 Federal Census lists Richard & Ann in one unit, son James and wife Mary E. b. Aug. 1860 in MA and a third family renting.

Richard Bradshaw died on Oct. 21, 1902 age 72. His wife Ann died on Aug. 24, 1905. The 1920 Andover Valuation schedule lists James O. Bradshaw at 18 Brook St. assessment; House 16, 18, 20, $3500, barn $600, 1/2 acre $1200.