Our History

For over a century we have continued our founding values of putting our customers first, earning their trust and providing the best possible service.

Our history is a rich part of who we are today. Our founder, Carl G. Brown, Sr., the great grandfather of our Chairman, would be more than amazed at how we do business today, but he would clearly recognize our values, which haven't changed. Since day one we have had a deep respect for our employees and customers. We strive to earn our customers' trust each day and give them the best possible service.

In 1914 we started as a customer-owned company offering workers' compensation insurance to California's new and growing industries. In 1917 we began offering auto insurance, followed by home insurance two decades later.

In 1951, we pioneered what's now become an industry trend of affinity insurance programs when we received the endorsement of the California Teachers Association (CTA) to provide auto and home insurance to its members. Sixty years later we still serve CTA and its members and have expanded nationally with over 100 other endorsements including the National Education Association; many police, state trooper, and firefighter associations; and universities and medical centers.