1850 census lists him as a Laborer, age 30.
1860 census lists him as a Laborer, age 42 with $200 personal property and born in PA.
1880 census for Slippery Rock, Butler Co lists him as a Laborer, age 62, with his wife Jane 60, born in Ireland.
Death Cert says he died at 87 years, 11 months, and 4 days. Cause of Death: Heart Failure & advanced age. Buried at Slippery Rock Cemetery. Occupation "Gentleman". The informant was W.J. Downs, which must be his son. He and William are listed as residing at 207 Butler Avenue, New Castle.  Father's name: Isaac Downs, mother unknown.
[Obituary] New Castle Herald - Sat, 8 Feb 1908, pg 1
BRADEN DOWNS
EAST SIDE RESIDENT PASSES FROM LIFE TODAY
Braden Downs, 88 years old, died this morning at the residence of his son, William J. Downs, a stone mason, at 207 Butler avenue. Death was due to the infirmities incident to old age. Mr. Downs lived most of his life in Slippery Rock, Butler county, and came to New Castle from that place seven years ago.
He was a widower, his wife having died some time ago. Two sons survive, John Downs, of Mercer county, and William J. Downs of Sharon. Mr. Downs was a member of the United Presbyterian church. The body will be shipped to Slippery Rock, Butler county, Monday morning and the funeral and interment will take place there.