Background
Chalmers, William James was born on July 10, 1852 in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Son of Thomas and Janet (Telfer) Chalmers.
Chalmers, William James was born on July 10, 1852 in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Son of Thomas and Janet (Telfer) Chalmers.
Educated public grammar and high schools, Chicago.
After leaving school was apprenticed to the Eagle Works Manufacturing Company, of which his father was then general superintendent. In 1872 became associated with his father in the firm of Fraser & Chalmers, of which was made vice-president and treasurer upon incorporation, 1889, president, 1891. Built works at Erith, Kent., England, 1889, known as Fraser & Chalmers, Limited.
United with Allis Engine Works at Milwaukee, the Bullock Works, Cincinnati, Gates Iron Works, Chicago, and Dickson Works, Scranton, Pennsylvania, as the Allis-Chalmers Company, 1901, of which was chairman of the executive committee, vice-president and treasurer until 1906 (retired).
With Chalmers & Williams, manufacturers mining machinery, Chicago, since 1911. President Bates Expanded Steel Truss Company Formerly member Chicago Board of Education, and a director World’s Columbian Exposition.
Then life trustee Field Museum of Natural History and Science.
Member Chicago Board of Education.
Married Joan, daughter