Hi,
I am looking if anyone can help me find out as much as I can about the above named: James L. Wilson.
I was recently made aware of this man and that he was a Violin Maker originally from Galston but who made his instruments in Greenock (at 20 Octavia Cottages, which is in the area of East Crawford Street).
I know that he was born 13th April, 1847 and was based in Greenock at least from 1890s to 1900s. There is mention of him winning awards for an exhibit of his Violins at a Greenock Exhibition in 1893 although I do not know the specific date this occurred. He was also clearly a very active maker: based on a facsimile of his marking inside an instrument he went from his 19th instrument in 1899 to 54th in 1907.
From a search on Scotland's People, I have been able to find an 1891 census record with a James L. Wilson with the correct age, signature (comparing to the facsimile) and place of birth. Further, the area recorded (Greenock East) would also suggest this is the person I am looking for.
I have also checked Post Office Directories up to 1912 (the latest available to view) and there is a James L. Wilson consistently noted at an address of 66 East Crawfurd Street (assuming the 'u' was swapped for an 'o' at some point in time). This would suggest to me to be the person I am looking for.
Any information that can be provided would be much appreciated (knowing when he died, or how I might figure that out would be a good start).
