202 JAMES SHANKS 



In the year 1807 he came to Lin wood, a 

 small village in the neighbourhood of John- 

 stone, to erect and fit up a cotton mill. His 

 ability was discerned, and he was made a 



Partner in one of the large cotton mills of 

 ohnstone. He continued his engineering 

 work, and made machinery for the whole 

 district. He had six sons all of whom were 

 trained up to a practical acquaintance with 

 his business. James Shanks therefore, had 

 the sound practical training of a mechanic's 

 shop, and the engineering knowledge and 

 experience he there acquired proved of great 

 value to him in after life. The routine of the 

 shop was an admirable school for the man 

 who was to make his mark as a capable and 

 highly successful chemical manufacturer. 

 The father selected James, his eldest son, to 

 enjoy the advantages of a University 

 training and to study for the medical pro- 

 fession. He remained at home, assisting his 

 father and learning his business until he was 



o 



of age. He then proceeded to Glasgow Uni- 

 versity, and in due time obtained his diploma. 

 Returning to Johnstone, he there entered on 

 his professional career, and for two or three 

 years, was the young doctor of that small 

 manufacturing town. During his medical 



