James Mann was born in Hartlepool in 1899, and baptised on January 16th of that year. at St. Hilda's Church, Hartlepool. His parents were John Thomas Mann, a Marine Engineer, and Mary Ann Hall Mann, who were living at No.32, Middlegate Street, Hartlepool.
The 1891 Census shows John and Mary Ann now living in Lumley Street, Hartlepool, with four children; John Oswald (aged 9), Edith Maud (aged 7), Olive (aged 4), and 2-year old James. By 1901, the family are living at No.13, Catherine Street, Hartlepool, now with two additional children, Annie G. (aged 7), and newly-born Fred. Father John, although only 39 years of age, is listed as a Retired Marine Engineer, whil his son John Oswald is an Apprentice Engine Fitter.
The 1911 Census shows James, a Marine Engine Fitter, is now boarding at No.12, Leyburn Street, West Hartlepool, home of the Ogden family.
In early 1913 James married Florence Louisa Smith, and they are listed as living at No.4, Friar Street, Hartlepool.
