After attending public school, Ferguson worked with his father in the restaurant business. In September 1917, during World War I, he joined the Army in Camp Dix, New Jersey and was attached to Company D. of the 310th Infantry, 78th Division. He served 13 months overseas, participating in three major engagements and being wounded at St. Mihiel. After he was discharged in June 1919, he resumed working with his father.