The fine block erected in Dixon in 1890, known as Countryman's Block, is occupied by a department store, 50 x 100 feet, in which may be found a complete stock of groceries, queensware, dry-goods and notions. Twelve clerks are kept in constant employ to meet the demands of the trade, and by a courteous treatment of customers and close attention to the wants of the people, the business has been made both remunerative and extensive. The building is built of pressed brick and terra cotta, and the upper floors are utilized for offices.

When Mr. Countryman came to Dixon in 1866, he was employed first as clerk for Alonzo Wood who some years afterward sold out to W.C. Stevens, with whom our subject formed a partnership in 1871, under the firm name of W.G. Stevens & Co. In 1877 he became sole proprietor and has since managed the business alone, having built up his present trade through hisunaided exertions.

A native of Herkimer County N.Y., Mr. Countryman is the son of John I., Jr. and the grandson of John I. Countryman, Sr., a native of New York who came of German ancestry of the old Mohawk Dutch stock. The senior John I. Countryman lived and died in Herkimer County, his decease occurring when he was more than 65 years old, and thus was brought to an end his honorable and useful existence as a farmer and citizen.

The father of our subject grew to man's estate in his native county, Herkimer, where he married Miss Nancy Failing, a native of Montgomery County N.Y. and the daughter of John Failing. The young couple located in Herkimer County where they lived on a farm until their death. He passed away in 1868 at the age of 65 and she died in 1878, age 71. They wer religious and adhered to one common faith, free from denominational distinction. The family numbered 8 children, all sons, seven of whom are yet living - Levi and William, farmers in Herkimer; Norman, Harvey, Alvin and John E. who follow farming in Ogle County and our subject.

The last named was reared in his native county, where he gained a common-school education. He was not a college graduate nor does he consider that a collegiate education is necessary to a successful business career, believing that a thorough training in the good schools of our country, in connection with industry, energy and enterprise, will win success. He is one of the leading merchants and citizens of Dixon, is connected with the Republican party and socially is with the Blue Lodge No. 7, Nachusa Chapter and Dixon Commandery No. 21.