James Norris – St. Catharines, Ontario

James Norris (1820–1891) was a prominent businessman, shipowner, and politician based in St. Catharines, Ontario. Originally from Scotland, Norris emigrated to Canada and became an influential figure in Ontario’s maritime and industrial sectors. He established himself as a significant shipowner, holding stakes in numerous vessels that operated on the Great Lakes, many of which were built by local shipbuilders like Louis Shickluna. Norris’s fleet primarily transported agricultural products, lumber, and other goods essential to the industrial and economic development of the region.

In addition to his role as a shipowner, Norris was deeply involved in other business ventures, including milling and the grain trade, and he was a significant force behind the agricultural and shipping boom in Ontario. He leveraged his shipping assets to ensure the efficient movement of goods between markets, playing a critical role in establishing Ontario as a trade leader. His vessels, including the schooner CLYDE, were well-known on the Great Lakes and contributed to the Norris family’s success.

Norris also served as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, representing Lincoln County, where he advocated for policies that supported Ontario’s economic growth and infrastructure development. His influence extended to community development, and his investments in transportation infrastructure, including shipping, were instrumental in shaping the St. Catharines region.