John Schamber was born in southern Russia on March 6th, 1856. In 1882 John moved to Freeman, working as partner with his brother George in the general merchandise business. In 1886 they controlled a large stock in the Farmers Elevator. In 1894 the Schamber brothers became sole owners of the property. In 1900 John helped organize Merchants State Bank. In 1919 John sold the merchandise business to his brother. John Schamber passed away in 1923.5