PATTERSON, J. B.

PATTERSON, BUTLER, HAINES

Posted By: Jennifer Gunderson (email)
Date: 3/14/2021 at 19:52:12

Among Clear Lake's progressive and enterprising business men must be numbered J. B. Patterson, a jewelry dealer who has established for himself a thriving trade and has the distinction of having been in business probably longer than any other jewelry dealer in Cerro Gordo county. Mr. Patterson was born at Homer in Cortland county, New York, June 30, 1856. His parents, U. H. and Amelia (Butler) Patterson, were also natives of the Empire state. Mr. Patterson claimed the advantages of the graded school education provided by his hometown, and at the age of eighteen went to Ithaca, New York, where he began to acquire the knowledge of jewelry and watch making which has since served him in such good stead. After spending five years in Ithaca he went to Binghamton, New York, where he remained for several years longer. In 1882, attracted by the newer and richer resources of the west he came to Omaha, Nebraska, and his father following in 1884, they went into business together, this most satisfactory partnership being terminated by the death of the father in 1885.

In 1885 Mr. Patterson removed to Mason City, Iowa, and for something like a year was in the employ of a brother who resided there. In 1886 he made the step which was to be the most momentous one in his career, by his coming to Clear Lake, where he bought out the business of James Clark, which he has ever since conducted. He has a tine stock of goods; built his present fine store building in 1896; and enjoys a large and growing patronage.

In addition to this primary interest he is one of the organizers of the Clear Lake Independent Telephone Company and had charge of the first exchange when it consisted of but ten numbers. In polities Mr. Patterson gives his heart and hand to the Democratic party and enjoys the social benefit of membership in the Knights of Pythias. Mrs. Patterson is a member of the Congregational church and president of the Ladies' Aid Society.

Mr. Patterson was united in marriage, November 30, 1883, to Miss Eva C. Haines, who was born at Caledonia, Minnesota, March 28, 1858. They have one son, Leland R., who is at home.

Source: WHEELER, J. H. History of Cerro Gordo County, Iowa. Vol. II. Lewis Publ. Co. Chicago. 1910. Transcribed by Jennifer Gunderson (Mar 2021).