The business interests of Dixon find a worthy representative in John.Buel Crabtree, secretary and treasurer of the Dixon Water Company since 1902. This is, however, but one phase of his activity, for he is a well known and representative member of the bar, his ability being continually manifest in his successful conduct of important and involved cases. Born in Dixon, he attended the public schools until graduated from the high school and then prepared for his chosen profession as a student in the law department of the University of Wisconsin, from which he was graduated in 1902. He has since engaged in general law practice and has served as justice of the peace since 1909. He has never neglected to give thorough preparation before entering the courtroom, while an excellent presence, an earnest manner, marked strength of character, a thorough grasp of the law and the ability to accurately apply its principles make him an attractive and successful advocate. In the year in which he opened his law office he also entered into active connection with commercial interests as secretary and treasurer of the Dixon Water Company.

Mr. Crabtree is equally well known in other connections, being popular in fraternal circles and active in church work. He belongs to the Baptist church, of which he is a trustee, and he is a past exalted ruler of the Elks lodge. He likewise has membership with the Masonic fraternity and with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and all entertain high consideration for him because of his integrity and impartiality in his profession, his enterprise in business connections and his public spirit in matters of citizenship.

History of Lee County by Frank Everett Stevens