About Us

About Us

Hyman Brown Insurance Agency, Inc. was founded in 1962 by Hyman R. Brown. Mr. Brown had been in the life and health insurance business since 1948 but wanted to expand to a multiple line agency. He first obtained a couple of contracts with life and health companies and began to write business. He hired a part time customer service representative in 1970. His son, Don R. Brown, joined him in 1973. As the business continued to grow, 1975 saw the agency move to new offices. The late 1970's and early 1980's saw the agency add Allstate Insurance Company, Southern Trust Insurance Company, Progressive Insurance Company, Foremost Insurance Company, Grange Mutual Insurance Company, Guide One Insurance Company (formerly Preferred Risk Mutual), and National Security Fire and Casualty. Tragedy struck the agency on January 20, 1984 when Hyman R. Brown was fatally injured in an automobile accident. He was struck by a drunk driver.

The agency was incorporated on January 25, 1984 and Don R. Brown was elected as President. The agency continued to grow and an additional producer was needed. Gerald A. Jordan was hired in 1987 as that producer. In 1987 and 1989, Hyman Brown Insurance Agency, Inc. purchased several small agencies, blending them into the current operation. During one of the purchases the agency acquired a contract with State Auto Mutual Insurance Company. Western Surety Company was also added. In 1991 Gerald began was given the option to become a partner. Growth brought the need for larger offices and a move was made to the current offices at 11 State Street in Commerce, Georgia.

As the 1990's progressed, an additional two small agencies were purchased and absorbed. The agency also added Auto-Owners Insurance Company and Columbia Insurance Company. A new day dawned in 2001 when Roy E. Holland was added to the agency as a producer and partner. Roy brought a new level of expertise along with solid contacts in the Stephens County, Franklin County, and Hart County areas. Builders Insurance Company, Southern Mutual Church, Zurich Insurance Company, Athens Area Health, and Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Georgia were added to the existing company plant. The agency continued to add quality personnel as well as contracting with Allied Insurance Company and Utica Mutual.

In June 2005 the agency assumed the operation of Pethel Insurance Services, Inc. of Jefferson, GA. Jade F. Pethel was named Branch Manager of the new Jefferson location. The agency then added Travelers Insurance/St. Paul Travelers and Encompass Insurance Company to the mix of quality carriers.