DYE BROTHERS & CO., comprising Willoughby Dye, Sylvester Dye, Henry Kennedy and Elmer E. Smith, constitute the pioneer and leading mercantile house of Macedonia, their establishment being one of the most popular stores in the western part of Pottawattamie County.

Willoughby Dye, the senior member started in business at old Macedonia in July 1876 as a member of the firm of Heinsteiner & Dye. In 1878 Mr. Dye purchased his partner's interest, and in 1880 a partnership was formed with his brother, Sylvester Dye. In February 1878, Henry Kennedy and Elmer E. Smith were admitted into the firm. Their store building, 44 x 90, was erected in 1882. They keep a very large and fine stock of general merchandise, dry goods and groceries, boots and shoes, etc., doing a business of $40,000 to $50,000 per annum. They are, of course, extensively and favorable known. Willoughby Dye & Co. are the leading manufacturers of Brick and tile in the eastern part of the county, making 350,000 brick each year and employing six to eight men during the season of business. Their works were established in 1882.

Mr. Willoughby dye was born in Lee County, Iowa, April 14, 1852, a son of Henry Dye, who settled in Iowa in 1839. His mother's name before marriage was Jane Mickelwaite, a native of England. He was brought up on a farm and completed his school education at the Academy at Fort Madison. He then taught school for a time, including two terms in Pottawattamie County. Coming here first in 1871 he returned to Lee County and in 1863 (one of these years incorrect-typed as in the book) came again to this county. He taught school until February 1874 when he obtained a situation with D.L. Heimscheimer at Glenwood, Iowa, with whom he formed in 1876 the partnership, etc., as before stated. Though yet in the prime of life Mr. Dye has had large experience in life and as a businessman and citizen he stands high in the estimation of the people. Being very liberal, with his purse as well as in spirit, he has done more than any other man in the building up of the village of Macedonia. Politically he is a Democrat; and he is at present the Worshipful Master of the Ruby Lodge, No. 415, F. & A.M.; and he is also a member of subordinate lodge, No. 421, I.O.O.F.

He was married October 1, 1879, at Macedonia to Miss Maggie Reinund, who was born in Cedar County, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Dye have four children: Charles, Harry L., Irolene and an infant son not yet named.