James Lumsden (Lord Provost, died 1856)
James Lumsden | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1778-11-13 Glasgow, Scotland |
| Died | 1856-05-16 |
| Occupation(s) | Merchant, stationer, politician |
| Years active | 1810–1852 |
| Known for | Lord Provost of Glasgow (1843–1846), founder of Clydesdale Bank, Glasgow School of Design creation |
James Lumsden (1778–1856) was a Scottish merchant and stationer who held the position of Lord Provost of Glasgow between 1843 and 1846.
Life
James Lumsden was born on 13 November 1778 in Glasgow to James Lumsden, an engraver and publisher, and Jean Adamson. The family resided in the heart of Glasgow, where he received his education at Glasgow Grammar School. Their publishing enterprise, J. Lumsden and Son, established in 1783, focused primarily on children's literature.
Following his father's retirement in 1810, he assumed control of the publishing firm. He expanded the business under the name James Lumsden & Son, operating from 20 Queen Street, Glasgow. By 1840, his home was located at 208 St Vincent Street.
In 1838, Lumsden played a pivotal role in founding the Clydesdale Bank. His involvement with Glasgow Town Council began in 1833, eventually leading to his election as Lord Provost of Glasgow from 1843 to 1846. Prior to this role, he served as a town councillor, baillie, and commissioner of the City of Glasgow Police. Among his notable accomplishments during his provostship was the creation of the Glasgow School of Design.
Lumsden retired from public life in 1852 and passed away on 16 May 1856. His final resting place is in the churchyard of Glasgow Cathedral.
Artistic Recognition
A statue crafted by John Mossman is positioned close to the cathedral, facing the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, an institution to which both he and his brother Lachlan contributed significantly. Additionally, Sir Daniel Macnee painted his portrait.
Family
He was married to Margaret Gourlay, and their two sons, James and George, initially became involved in the family enterprise. James Jr later led the Clydesdale Bank from 1851 until his death and served as Lord Provost of Glasgow between 1866 and 1869. He received a knighthood in 1868 as Sir James Lumsden of Arden.