May 12, 2025
A Century of COUNTRY Financial®: The Thompson Family's Lasting Legacy
As COUNTRY marks its 100th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the lasting impact of those who laid its foundation. For Josh Thompson, a Senior Rating Analyst in the PC Rate Revision department, the milestone carries personal significance.
“Samuel Thompson was my great-great-grandfather,” Josh shared. “COUNTRY was founded in 1925, and at that time, Sam was the president of the Illinois Agricultural Association (IAA) when Farmers Mutual Reinsurance Company (FMRC) was organized and chartered.”
In December 1924, the IAA Insurance Committee collaborated with the Illinois Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (IAMIC) to establish a reinsurance solution for companies in the state. After several discussions and careful planning, the foundation of COUNTRY took shape.
Josh’s father, and a former COUNTRY agent in late 80s and early 90s, Jim Thompson said, “Without his leadership and the teamwork between associations, COUNTRY wouldn’t be what it is today.”
A lifetime of service
Sam Thompson was a pioneer in the Farm Bureau movement, dedicating his life to advancing agriculture and national farm policy. Born in Quincy, Illinois, he lived to 92, devoting his years to community service and championing farmers' rights. His work with the Farm Bureau helped provide a unified and powerful voice for farmers.
A founding member of the statewide Farm Bureau, Sam became president of the Illinois Agricultural Association in 1923. His leadership and advocacy earned him the position of the third president of the American Farm Bureau Federation in 1925. He served in this role until 1931 when President Hoover appointed him to the Federal Farm Board.
Sam Thompson’s recipe for happiness is well documented in history books: “I have always tried to be constructive in thought and deed; to join the construction gang, and not the wrecking crews.”
Leaving a legacy
“My great-grandfather passed away in April 1956,” Jim recalled. “I was just four years old, but I remember saying goodbye to him. He was surrounded by family when he left us.”
Jim takes pride in his great-grandfather’s role in the company, his commitment to agriculture, and the legacy he left for the farmers of Illinois.
“Based on everything I’ve read, Great Grandpa Sam was incredibly proud of his time in Washington,” Jim said. “When Congress questioned why he was the one chosen to advocate, he showed them 67,000 signatures of support—all from Illinois farmers.”
Josh shares his family’s appreciation for history, too. He majored in the subject at Western Illinois University. He is also a museum enthusiast, making it a point to visit a museum in every city he visits. Josh often stays from open to close, drawing the exhibits that inspire him.
“I started working at COUNTRY in 2006 in a temporary role,” Josh said. “I’ve moved around a bit within the company, but I’ve been in my current position since 2023. COUNTRY is a great place to work, and I’m grateful to everyone who contributes to that. I expect many of us have some familial history within our company.”
Both Josh and Jim plan to visit the McLean County History Museum to see the 100th anniversary exhibit.
“I’m excited to see Sam’s name among those who built the company,” Josh added.
A family affair
For generations, the Thompson family has remained closely connected to COUNTRY.
“I remember the smell of the older model copy machines,” Josh said with a smile. “Growing up on my dad’s farm, and later visiting his agencies, influenced my appreciation for farming and insurance.”
As COUNTRY celebrates this milestone, the legacy of those who shaped it continues to inspire new generations. For the Thompsons, it’s more than just a company anniversary—it’s a reminder of the Values that have shaped their family and COUNTRY itself.
“Knowing my great-great-grandfather played a role in something that has lasted a century is humbling,” Josh said. “It reminds me that the work we do today matters for the future.”
Jim agrees, emphasizing the enduring commitment of COUNTRY to farmers. “It’s incredible to see how the mission Sam helped shape is still relevant today,” he said. “It proves that a good idea, backed by good people, can stand the test of time.”
As the 100th anniversary celebrations continue, Josh and Jim look forward to sharing more of their family’s history. From Sam’s early advocacy to the generations that followed, the Thompsons are proud to be part of the COUNTRY legacy—one that will continue for years to come.
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COUNTRY Financial® is a family of affiliated companies (collectively, COUNTRY) located in Bloomington, IL. Learn more about who we are.