James Thomas McIlmoyl

Who was James Thomas McIlmoyl?

James Thomas McIlmoyl was a farmer and political figure in British Columbia. He represented Victoria in the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia from 1878 to 1882.

He was born in Ontario, of Scottish descent, was educated in Ontario and worked as an apprentice in a general store. McIlmoyl came to Victoria in May 1862 and then prospected and mined in the Cariboo District. Having achieved little success at mining, he returned to Victoria and, in 1870, purchased a farm where he raised livestock and grew grain. In the same year, he married Ann Simpson. In 1873, he was named a justice of the peace. He also served as secretary for the local school district. McIlmoyl was also a prominent member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He was defeated when he ran for reelection in 1882. He died in Victoria at the age of 92.