Sir James Wallace (1731 – 6 March 1803) was an officer of the Royal Navy. He served for a time as a colonial governor.
Wallace was born in England and entered the Royal Navy in 1746. He was promoted to lieutenant in 1755, and to commander in 1762. On 12 April 1794, Wallace was promoted Rear-Admiral and commander-in-chief and governor of Newfoundland.
During his governorship Wallace defended the coast of Newfoundland from French privateers. In August 1796 Wallace's leadership successfully defended St. John's against a French squadron of seven ships and three frigates and raised a militia known as Skinner's Fencibles.
He departed Newfoundland in 1797 for England, and left active service. He died in London on 6 March 1803.
Service history:
| Political offices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by Sir Richard King |
Commodore Governor of Newfoundland 1794–1796 |
Succeeded by William Waldegrave |
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