Birth, Family and Early Life

Wright was born in 1826 in Bristol. His initial Christian upbringing was in the Society of Friends, but in 1840 he joined Muller’s Brethren chapel in Brandon Hill. He worked in business as a young man, and in 1851 married Miss Ann Willington.

Work at Ashley Down

Wright became known for his attractive Christian character and made a positive impression on George Muller from an early age. In 1859 he accepted Muller’s invitation to join him as chief assistant at the orphanages. In 1871 Wright both succeeded Muller as the main director and married Muller’s daughter Lydia, his first wife having died the previous year. Muller then dedicated himself to the work of an evangelist, touring the world, while Wright consolidated the work of the orphanages which took care of over 10,000 children during the Victorian era.

Later Life and Death

Wright outlived both Lydia, who died in 1890, and George, who died in 1898. He continued to direct the orphanages with Mr Fred Bergin. Wright died in 1905 from a carbuncle following a bout of blood poisoning.

Grave

James Wright is buried with both his wives in a grave near Sunshine Corner. His memorial was ‘erected by the loving and spontaneous gifts of not a few of the orphans who were formerly cared for at Ashley Down’.