James Norton

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For the U.S. Representative from Ohio (1843-1912), see James A. Norton. For the U.S. Representative from South Carolina (1843-1920), see James Norton (politician). For other persons, see Jim Norton.

James Lansdowne Norton, (January 8, 1869 – April 21, 1925) founded the "Norton Manufacturing Company" in Birmingham, England in 1898. The company began making chains for bicycles before producing early motorcycles with imported engines from the Swiss and French. In 1913 the business declined, R.T. Shelley & Co., the main creditors, intervened and saved it. Norton Motors Ltd was formed shortly afterwards under joint directorship of James Norton and Bob Shelley, whose brother-in-law Dan "Wizard" O'Donovan was an acclaimed racer and tuner.

Norton was a much loved boss, and was known as 'Pa' Norton. He was prematurely aged. He was frequently accompanied by his father, and they were often taken for brothers. He is buried at Lodge Hill Cemetery in Selly Oak, Birmingham, England.