Nordstrom stores are known for outstanding customer service and product selection. The Seattle-based department store began as a small shoe store co-founded by Swedish immigrant John W. Nordstrom (1871-1963) in 1901.

John W. Nordstrom endured many hardships before becoming a successful shoe retailer in the early 20th century. A difficult childhood, immigration to the United States, and a series of back-breaking jobs gave Nordstrom the drive he needed to succeed and taught him the value of hard work.

The founder of Nordstrom stores was born Johan W. Nordstrom on February 15, 1871, in Alvik Neder Lulea, Sweden, just 60 miles from the Arctic Circle. Nordstrom's father, a blacksmith, wagon maker, and part-time farmer, died when Nordstrom was eight. Three years later, Nordstrom's mother took him out of school to work on the family farm. Nordstrom, the third of five children, described his childhood as unhappy. His mother expected him to do as...