JOHN FEHN. Of the many thousands of men today engaged in the liquor business in Chicago, very few can date their establishment back to the year 1860, the date at which Mr. John Fehn established himself as a retail liquor merchant. This gentleman is one of the pioneer liquor dealers of Chicago and, at present, conducts one of the most popular resorts on the North Side. His place is located at 121 and 123 North Clark Street, corner of Ohio, and comprises a parlor, 40 x 80 feet in space, which is handsomely finished in mahogany. The fixtures are all hand-carved, and the work is executed in the most artistic style. The bar is twenty-four feet long, and consists of one solid piece of the richest mahogany, while all the other furnishings are prepared on the same elaborate scale. Delicacies and refreshments are served in European style, and every convenience has been provided for the comfort and accommodation of guests. The bar is stocked with the choicest and most select wines and liquors, while the cigar department contains all the best brands of foreign and domestic cigars. None but the best quality goods are dispensed at this place, and the house enjoys a wide reputation for the superior standard at which its liquors are maintained. These parlors are extensively patronized by the residents of the North Side and citizens from all sections of Chicago. The place enjoys what may be termed a strictly select patronage, and it is managed upon a system which excludes all objectionable features and characters. Six polite and obliging assistants are employed, whose operations are under the direct supervision of Mr. Oscar E. Fehn, a young gentleman of 24 years, and a son of the proprietor. Mr. Oscar Fehn is considered one of the most expert men in the business, and his management of the place is a progressive one. Mr. John Fehn was born in Germany and came to Chicago in 1857. He is in his 57th year, and in the midst of a successful and prosperous business career. he at one time conducted a sample room on the site of the present court house, and removed from there to N. Clark Street, having purchased the ground and erected the building now occupied. He is regarded as a reliable merchant who promptly meets his obligations and possesses sound commercial integrity.

Return to FENN research page