James Reid founded his business in 1854, when the population of Kingston and area was about 15,000 and 30 to 40 vessels crowded into the city's harbour. James Reid purchased a tavern at 254 Princess Street, renovated it and turned it into a furniture and casket factory. James Reid eventually passed his knowledge and business on to his son Fred, who continued to expand the funeral services. Fred was succeeded by his son James W. Reid a respected Kingston figure known both for his business ability and his love of race cars. James W. Reid and his sons, present co-owners and part of the fourth generation of the Reid Family, Jim and David Reid, took the family business to a new level, adding a second funeral home in 1973 and a furniture store in 1979, both located on John Counter Blvd.. Because of the limitations of the original funeral home to meet the increasing needs of families, the Princess Street funeral home was closed in 1990.
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