J. R. Whitney, of the firm of J. R. Whitney & Co., wholesale dealers in fancy groceries, fruit and tobaccos, is one of the leading business men of Carroll. He established the fruit business at that place September 23, 1881, and later, added the other branches of the business. The firm make a specialty of the fruit trade. In 1886 they handled 7,000 barrels of Michigan and Missouri apples, besides much small fruit. They also handle oranges and lemons by the car-load. They employ two traveling salesmen, with a territory of about 100 towns, mostly in Northwestern Iowa. The firm has a large cigar trade. Their location is on Main street. Mr. Whitney has had a large experience in the fruit business. He is a son of A. R. Whitney, of Franklin Grove, Illinois, who is probably the most eminent horticulturist in the West. His son, our subject, had acted as travelling salesman for him for a long time previous to coming to Carroll. Mr. Whitney’s partner, A. W. Crawford, came to Carroll from Illinois, in 1883. These gentlemen are brothers-in-law. By good management and fair and honest dealing the firm has built up a good business.

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