Born in Eckington in about 1842, James Lee was the son of James Lee, an agricultural labourer, and his wife, Frances.  His elder brother was George Lee.   By 1851, James Lee Sen. and family had moved to Sheffield, where the sons were trained as white metal smiths.  In about 1876, James Lee & Co was a Britannia metal, electro-plate goods, and dram flask manufacturer at 87 Eldon Street.  James Lee Jun. was the senior partner, but after his brother joined it became Lee Bros, Spring Works, Eldon Street.  Their partnership ended in 1883.   James was then landlord at the Norfolk Arms, Suffolk Road.   George continued in the Britannia metal and electro-plate trade.  James Lee, Britannia metal spinner, died at Norfolk Arms, Suffolk Road, on 17 October 1884, aged 42.  He was buried in City Road Cemetery, leaving £48 to his widow, Caroline.