History of northern Wisconsin: containing an account of its settlement, growth, development, and resources, an extensive sketch of its counties, cities, towns and villages, their improvements, industries, manufactories, biographical sketches, portraits of prominent men and early settlers, views of county seats, etc. Chicago: Western Historical Co., 1881. p.1177

J.B. Russell, proprietor of the Russell House, came to Vinland, Winnebago Co., Wis., in May, 1851; was engaged in farming in that town for seventeen years, then he removed to Neenah and engaged in mercantile business, which he continued for three year, and for two years of that time he also kept a hotel and carried on a livery business. Afterward, for two years, he was farming. In 1875 he built the Russell House, which he has since successfully conducted. The hotel is commodious and elegant, and admirably kept. Mr. Russell is a native of Ogdensburg, N.Y., where he was born Aug. 12, 1822. While a resident of Vinland he was Superintendent of Schools. Since coming to Neenah he has been Alderman, and Superintendent of City Schools.