10/08/2026
When D.J. came to Perry in 1867, the town was still young. He put up a building and opened a general store, establishing the beginning of a business career that would eventually make him one of Perry’s most influential citizens. He operated the store for six years before purchasing his partner’s interest and continuing the business with his brother, Ira, as D.J. Pattee & Brother.
D.J. Pattee’s story didn’t end with the store. After selling the business, he turned his attention to real estate and loans. In 1883, he entered the banking business, eventually becoming president of the First National Bank of Perry. Along the way, he served as a county supervisor, Perry’s mayor and postmaster, represented the area in the Iowa House of Representatives, and became deeply involved in the growth of his community.
But perhaps the most interesting part of this photograph is what it reminds us of:
Hotel Pattee wasn’t simply built on a piece of Perry real estate. It was built on a piece of D.J. Pattee’s story. So when we look at this old photograph, we’re not just looking at a grocery store. We’re looking at the beginning of a story that eventually led to the Hotel Pattee. And that makes this little piece of Perry history pretty special.
