James Baird

James Baird was the son of Cumnock potter William Baird and Margaret Barrie. He was born in Belfast in 1897.

Here's the family in 1911 census
114 Townhead St, Cumnock
William Baird 39 potter, thrower, Scotch Motto Ware
Margaret T wife married 15 yrs 4 ch 4 living b Glasgow
Annie 15 b Glasgow
James 14 b Ireland
William 12 b Ireland
Alexandra 10 b Sauchie, Clakmannashire
Alexander Barrie 77 wid father-in-law b Glasgow

James enlisted in the HLI in 1916. His service record survives. He had blue eyes and brown hair.  He was a millwright. He lived at Crossriggs Cottage in Townhead Street, now the vets. He was of good character.
He was discharged just three months after enlisting as he suffered from a lung condition and was in hospital in Edinburgh. He was advised to go to a sanatorium but was not willing.  There was some discussion as to whether army service caused or aggravated his condition. The army concluded it did not. He got £25 as a gratuity.
He married Christina Speirs in 1925 but succumbed to his lung condition in 1928.
He had a son who is still alive. He was only 8 months old when his father died, and his daughter sent me the photos.

James on Cumnock Connections tree

James in hospital blues

James with his sisters

1925 wedding photo