James Baird (merchant) facts for kids

James Baird was born in Scotland on November 30, 1828. When he was 16 years old, he moved to Newfoundland. There, he quickly became a very successful merchant, which means he was a person who bought and sold goods. He was important in starting and supporting many businesses in Newfoundland.

James Baird's Business Success

James Baird, along with his brother and later his nephew, built a large and important business. They sold many different kinds of goods. Over time, their company also started supplying things needed for the fishing industry. This included items like fishing nets, boats, and other equipment.

Baird was one of the first people in Newfoundland to own a steam yacht. His yacht, named GRIFFIN, was built in Scotland in 1865. By the mid-1880s, his company also began exporting fish to other countries. His business was strong enough to survive big challenges. It continued to thrive after the major St. John's fire in 1892 and a difficult time when many banks failed a few years later.

The Famous Court Case

Even though James Baird had a very important business career, he is most remembered in Newfoundland history for a famous court case. It was called Baird et al. v. Walker. This case was about where a lobster processing factory could be built and how it could operate. The land in question was thought to be set aside for the French. James Baird won the case in the Supreme Court of Newfoundland.

Political Role and Summer Home

In 1898, James Baird was chosen to be a member of the Legislative Council of Newfoundland. This was an important group that helped make laws for Newfoundland. He held this position for the rest of his life.

James Baird also had a summer house that was very well-known. It was called both Bryn Mawr Cottage and Baird Cottage. This beautiful house was built in 1905 by an architect named William F. Butler. Sadly, the house was destroyed in a fire in December 2022.