James Bowles was born in Yarmouth, England about 1804.  He served as a drummer with the 9th Regiment of Foot, Norfolk, England and came to Canada about 1833, settling first in Franktown, Beckwith twp., Lanark county where he worked as a carpenter and raised a family.  They moved to Sarnia in 1863 where he gave his occupation as "trader". 

Apparently their land in Franktown was abandoned, possibly for taxes, as it was turned over to the Sheriff for public sale.  ref.

In the 1870's one son, James Jr., moved from Sarnia to Sombra township. 

See James Bowles of Sarnia and family

Map of Beckwith township in 1880