YOUR SILENT NEIGHBORS, James D. Welch, Political Leader
by David K. Leff
Canton Poet Laureate and Deputy Town Historian

For over 50 years the freight agent for the New Haven Railroad’s Collinsville Office, James D. Welch (1884-1963) retired from his job in 1961.  Born in Lisbon, Connecticut, he resided in Collinsville for the last 31 years of his life.  He was involved in politics and eventually served as chairman of the Democratic town committee.

Welch lived on High Street and was a communicant of St. Patrick’s Church.  He married Leah Pelletier and the couple had a son, James A. Welch.  A Solemn Requiem Mass was held at his church and there was a recitation of the Rosary at the Vincent Funeral Home on Albany Turnpike.

James D. Welch is buried in Calvary Cemetery, Collinsville.


“Your Silent Neighbors” introduces readers to people out of Canton’s past.  Readers are encouraged to visit these gravesites and pay their respects to the people who have helped make our community what it is today.