Abstract James Frederick Failing (1842-1920) was a prominent Portland businessman, civic leader, and member of the early Failing family. After arriving in Portland from New York in 1853, James participated in the wholesale hardware business of J. Failing and Co. with his father, Josiah, and his brother Henry. He would later go on to become the director or Portland’s First National Bank, and serve as a trustee for numerous local organizations. His children also became notable Portland figures through...