JAMES L. JAMES, JR., was born in Stewart County, Tenn., July 15, 1855, and is the eldest son of James L. and Eliza (Smith) James. The father is a native of Bridgeton, N. J., and was born in 1829; when a child, his parents, James L. and Charlotte James, moved to Montgomery County, Tenn. There the son was reared and educated, and in 1856 came to Lyon County, Ky., where for several years he was prominently identified with the iron manufacturing interests, from which he retired during the war, and has since given his attention to mercantile business. Mr. and Mrs. James are related to some of the renowned American historic characters; Gen. Hall and Liddie Darrah, both of Revolutionary fame, are related to Mr. James, and Mrs. James is a direct descendant of John Randolph, of Virginia; also related to Hon. John F. House, member of congress from Tennessee; she is a member in high standing of the Methodist Church. They have four children living: Bettie, wife of Hon. F. A. Wilson, whose sketch is given; James L., Jr., Edward H., a talented young attorney, reputed for thoroughness in his profession and holding the office of county attorney; was lately married to Maie Cassidy, of Eddyville; and Claud N. R., attending school. James L., Jr., attended school until he was fourteen years of age. He then entered the mercantile establishment of Bowman & Smith, as salesman, where his affable bearing won the esteem and confidence of his employers, and all others to whom he became known. After four years he took a position as traveling salesman for three years from Louisville; then clerked on a steamboat and engaged in wholesale trade, hardware line, for an Evansville firm, continuing until January 1, 1884. He then opened his present business, drugs and groceries, in Eddyville. Mr. James' social temperament has gathered wound him a large circle of friends, and brought a liberal patronage to his business. September 18, 1883, he married Sallie Woods, of Livingston County, Ky. She is a Presbyterian.
Source: J. H. Battle, W. H. Perrin, & G. C. Kniffin. Kentucky. A History of the State. Louisville, KY, Chicago, IL: Battey, 1885. Pages 855-856.