James Cameron Watson

Who is James Cameron Watson?

James Cameron Watson was born in Lexington, Kentucky in 1890 and received his education in Boston, New York and Halifax.

An electrician by trade, Mr. Watson was employed by Bell Telephone and later, Alberta Government Telephones.

During World War I he served as a Lewis gunner with the 56th and later, the 50th Battalions. Following the Battle of Vimy Ridge, he was transferred to the Signal Corps. Mr. Watson saw action at the Somme, Paschendale, Amiens and at Cambrai, where he was wounded.

Mr. Watson was first elected to Calgary City Council in 1943 and served through to 1945. He became the 25th Mayor of Calgary in 1945 and held that office for three years.

Always active in union work, Mr. Watson was at one time, Chairman of the Calgary Labour Council and continued to be involved in labour matters into his retirement.