Memorable Manitobans: Thomas William James (1883-?)

Bandmaster.

Born at Umballa, India, 1883. Son of Alfred James and Emily Tavner. Married Kitty Crawford, Hull, England, 28 July 1911. Was educated at the English Schools. Comes of a military and musical family; father, served on the staff of the Duke of Connaught in India, 1st Battalion of the 25th; schoolmaster attached to regiment and band-master of the King’s Own. Captain James has had a long and honorable career, served in Africa with 2nd Dragoon Guards (Cavalry); eight years with the Bays, Corporal, Solo Clarinet; purchased discharge and returned to England; passed examinations and joined Scots Guards (seven years) principal performer; played at King Edward’s funeral, coronation of King George, many Court festivities; came to Canada and toured with Scots Guards Band, 1911; came to Winnipeg and was Assistant Musical Director of 106th Regiment Light Infantry Band. Joined Canadian Expeditionary Force, August 1914. Organized Canadian Expeditionary Force Band (106th ) Valcartier, 10th Battalion Band. France, February 1915, 10th Battalion Band; smuggled instruments into France and was the first Canadian Band with the Division, 2nd Brigade Band; on return to Canada after the war formed GWVA Band; toured the U.S.A. and came to Winnipeg. The PPCLI Band under his efficient leadership has become one of the leading bands of Canada; visited Wembley Exhibition, 1924; invited to return in 1925; promoted captain. Holds many splendid letters of commendation from military and musical authorities. Member of the Winnipeg Kiwanis Club. Address, Tuxedo Barracks, Tuxedo, Manitoba.

Sources:

Pioneers and Prominent People of Manitoba, Winnipeg: Canadian Publicity Company, 1925.

This page was prepared by Gordon Goldsborough.

Page revised: 22 December 2012

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