[5] In New York, they were employed as journeymen printers and helped form the Franklin Typographical Association which was an early labor union.

[6] In 1803, young Bruce was foreman and a contributor to the Daily Advertiser, and in November of that year printer and publisher of the paper for the proprietor.

Their industry and personal attention to business soon brought them abundant employment, and in 1809, moving to Sloat lane, near Hanover square, they had nine presses in operation, and published occasionally on their own account.

Here, and subsequently in 1818, when they erected the type foundry still occupied by their successors in Chambers street, George gave his attention to the enlargement and development of the type-founding business, while David confined his labors to stereotyping.

[7] In 1856, he commissioned architect James Bogardus to build 254 Canal Street, one of the earliest as well as one of the most handsome examples of cast-iron architecture.

[10][11] Together George and Catherine had:[12] Bruce was considered a man of large benevolence, unflinching integrity, and great decision of character.

[18] Through his daughter Janet, he was a grandfather of George Bruce Brown and a great-grandfather of David Loney Bruce-Brown, the American race-car driver.