William A. James

William Andrew James (December 8, 1838 - December 31, 1893) was an American politician and Republican member of the Illinois House of Representatives.

Biography
William A. James was born December 8, 1838, in Providence, Rhode Island. He served in the American Civil War, reaching the rank of colonel in the Union Army. He moved to Chicago in 1865 and open a steam machinery business. After the Great Chicago Fire, he moved to Highland Park, Illinois. He was elected mayor in 1873.

He was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives in 1874 and served for three terms. He served as Speaker in his final term.

He died in Highland Park on December 31, 1893, and was buried at Lake Forest Cemetery.