“James Bailey was born in Ontario in 1878, settling in Chilliwack in 1877. He worked for Mr.Reece for eight years, and at the same time was felling and hewing the trees on his own land; this gave him enough lumber to construct four houses, including the Walker House (47795 McGuire Road) , and this his own home. Bailey sold his farm to John McIntyre in 1902. Behind the latter vynil siding are the original square notched log walls of Bailey’s house. ”
(Page 14,The District of Chilliwack Heritage Inventory, Chilliwack Heritage Advisory Committee, 1991, Chilliwack Museum and Archives reference collection)
Photo taken in February 2014
Ummmm. Born in 1878 and settled here in 1877?
yes, working on it, will speak to the Heritage Society in Chilliwack to clear this up. Did some research and it looks like he was born in 1858 and passed away in 1932 according to Carmen United Cemetery in Chilliwack
James Bailey was born in Ontario on 28 Feb 1858 and was the only son of Robert and Margaret Bailey as she died giving birth to him.
James was very active in civic affairs, serving several terms on the Township of Chilliwack municipal council. He also served on the school board and was a leader in the work of the farmer’s institute. He was Chair of District E Institutes for many years.
His farm on Bailey road is still owned by the family.
Thank you Darcey for giving us a update on one of the early pioneers of Chilliwack. His dedication and service to the City of Chilliwack in its early years will never be forgotten.