James Baird was born in Saltcoats, Ayrshire, Scotland, November 30, 1828, where he received his education, and reached St. John's in 1844. He began business life as a draper's assistant, and in 1853 entered into partnership with his brother David, under the firm of Baird Brothers, general importers and drapers. In this firm he remained until 1872, when he retired and commenced business in his own name, extending the old trade into the general fishery business on the general fishery and supplying business of the country.

He has very large interests in the fishing business on the West Treaty coast, at Bay St. George, and Port au Port. In 1890 he had a dispute with the Imperial Government under the "modus vivendi" arrangement, and applied to the courts for redress. The case of "Baird vs Walker" (Sir Baldwin Walker, Captain of H.M.S. Emerald) is now famous, and the supreme court of Newfoundland sustained Mr. Baird's contention. Sir Baldwin, for his government,appealed to the Privy Council, and Mr. Baird, with true Scotch tenacity, fought it out and won, the appeal being dismissed with costs. In this connection he earned the title, "Our Local Hampton." Mr. Baird has been exceedingly successful in business, living a very active life, which has in a large degree prevented his being officially prominent in public life.

He is closely connected with the various industrial institutions, being president of the Gas Light Company, Boot and Shoe Company, and others, and a member of the directorate of nearly every company of any importance in the community. he is a leading member of the Presbyterian Church, and filled the office of treasurer of that body for over thirty-five years. With a manner somewhat brusque, he has a heart so large that no one requiring a charitable or kind act at his hand goes unheeded. He is one of the most liberal and unostentatious givers to all worthy objects in the city. He is married to Miss Anne Boyd of St. John's. His three sons are actively engaged with him in his business.