Like the mines he supervised, Ed James’ life boomed and busted

Edward Alfred James was born on Feb. 29, 1868, in Jefferson County, Neb., the son of John G. and Rebecca James, who had immigrated to the United States from Wales.

By 1880, Edward was living with his mother and siblings in Webb City. Edward’s two older brothers were working as miners while he attended school. In 1900, Edward and his mother were living at 522 N. Allen (Main) St. with his nephew, Ulysses Allen and his wife Daisy. Edward was making a living as a blacksmith at this time.

In June 1901, Edward married Ida Wren in Columbus, Cherokee County, Kan. By 1910, Edward and Ida had moved to 701 N. Devon St., and he was working as a zinc mine superintendent.

Ida James died on Nov. 16, 1918, at the age of 38, from pulmonary tuberculosis. She was buried in Carterville Cemetery.

Edward married Emma Ellen Bailey Miner, widow of James R. Miner, who died on Jan. 28, 1918, from pulmonary tuberculosis. The Miners had been neighbors of Edward and Ida, living at 606 N. Devon Street.

Edward and Emma were married until she died on Feb. 11, 1927, from pulmonary tuberculosis leaving two young sons, James B. Miner from her first marriage, and Edward B. James from her second marriage.

Edward James died on May 9, 1939, at the age of 72. He is buried in Carterville Cemetery by his two wives, Ida and Emma. 

Edward’s obituary stated that the one-time wealthy mine operator died in the county almshouse. 

He had been a veteran mine operator and made several sizeable fortunes in his mining ventures. He had worked in the mines here several years during the early history of the town before starting out for himself. 

He had been a resident of Webb City about 60 years and served as councilman from the 3rd Ward and as constable of the Joplin Township.