Son of the majorat José Francisco da Terra Brum (1st Baron of Alagoa and last Captain-mor of the island of Faial) and his wife Francisca Paula Brum e Silveira. Manuel Maria, like his father, was one of the largest winegrowers on the island of Pico, producing 1000 pipas of Verdelho wine annually.
Baron
Cultured and practical businessman, he dedicated his life to the "development of industry, agriculture, vineyards and noble exploration of all the sources of wealth in Faial and Pico". After his first voyages abroad he created the Quinta da Silveira (Estate of Silveira), in Santo Amaro, which became "one of the richest and more beautiful properties in the Azores, rivalling the decanted gardens of São Miguel". Battling against ruin, Manuel Maria Terra introduced new castes, including American grape varieties.
His initiative provoked a renaissance in the wines of Pico, as other winegrowers adopted new castes, resulting in new wines.
During the course of his conversion, Manuel Maria spent much of his fortune (selling-off his estate) but was successful in recuperating his investment. Later life
Manuel Maria da Terra Brum left behind his name in various buildings and philanthropic works.
On 28 November 1859, he became one of the founders of the Amor da Pátria, becoming president for several years. He was also on the board of the Caixa Económica Faialense, becoming president and responsible for the construction of the roadway along Vista Alegre.
His funeral was on the afternoon of 12 July 1905.
His body was escorted by directors from the Sociedade Amor da Pátria, Luz e Caridade and Asilo da Infância Desvalida (Asylum for Destitute Children), to whom he was their protector and president
He was a member of one of the oldest and illustrious families, that included Brums, Terras and Silveiras.
