Biography of James Patton

James Patton (1756-1845) was an Irish immigrant. He travelled to the United States to make enough money to support his family back home. He worked at various jobs, struggling with poverty and illness, until he became a prominent merchant. Patton used his social position and wealth to support his section of the country. He donated the land on which Trinity Episcopal Church in Asheville now stands and in 1841 he helped open the church. In 1841 he was a member of Asheville's first board of commissioners and served as the presiding justice in the Buncombe County Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for many years. His autobiography The Biography of James Patton (1850), an interesting historical document of the 19th century America, explores the events of his life and describes his business dealings and his personal achievements. It also reflects the fraternal bond among Irish immigrants in the United States.