Stratton, John J.

John J. Stratton was born in New Baltimore, Stark County, Ohio, on July 27, 1869, to Civil War veteran Elias Stratton and Catherine Boston. Raised on his family farm, he attended local public schools and learned both farming and carpentry. He later married Nora Matti of Randolph, Portage County, Ohio, and developed a successful celery farm on his own land. Due to his wife failing health, the couple moved west in 1906 and settled near Fowler in Fresno County, California, where Mrs. Stratton tragically passed away on November 15 of that year.

In 1908, John purchased twenty acres at White Bridge Road and Hughes Avenue in Fresno County, where he planted a vineyard and set out a fine eucalyptus grove. He entered the poultry business in 1909, expanding his operation over time to include a flock of approximately one thousand White Leghorn hens. Following the loss of his wife and his daughter, Piccola, who died on March 15, 1919, he remained dedicated to his ranching operations and active community involvement. A supporter of the California Associated Raisin Company and a Republican in national politics, he earned high respect in his district for building a successful business through industrious efforts.