DICKSON, JAMES McCOLL (1854-1937) was born in Victoria and came to New Zealand with his parents in 1863. After finishing his education at public schools in Otago he commenced sawmilling with his brothers at Catlins, but shortly relinquished this to farm at Portobello. Here he spent 40 years, having considerable success in raising stock.

He was a member (and chairman 1904-16) of the Portobello road board; of the school committee (also chairman); and of the Otago harbour board: 1911-35 (chairman 1915-16, 1926-27, 1927-28). In early manhood he was a keen cricketer and for many years he was a leading rifle shot, being president of the Peninsula Rifle Association, captain of the Peninsula Club and a member of the New Zealand rifle team at the Melbourne Exhibition. Dickson contested a seat in Parliament in the Reform interest in 1911, being defeated by E. H. Clark (q.v.); was elected in 1914 and represented Chalmers continuously until his retirement in 1928. He was some time chairman of the public petitions committee (M to Z). Dickson died on 16 Mar 1937.

Who's Who N.Z., 1932; Evening Star, 17 Mar 1937. Portrait: Parliament House.

Reference: Volume 1, page 119

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