James Matthews was born in Aberdeen in 1820 and died on the 28th June 1878 aged 78 years. The son of a banker, Matthews was educated in Aberdeen and on leaving school was apprenticed to Archibald Simpson, the celebrated architect of Aberdeen, who designed the original part of Marischal College. Matthews then moved to London where he spent five years working in the office of Sir Gilbert Scott, so it was that his knowledge of his subsequent profession was acquired under the direction of two of its most competent masters.
Upon returning to Aberdeen, Mr Matthews commenced business as an architect in partnership with a Mr Thomas McKenzie of Elgin. Over the years, Mr Matthews speedily acquired a high reputation as an architect of great skill and taste, and came to be extensively employed alike in private and in what might be termed public work. In the latter, he designed a large number of the more prominent buildings that have arisen in Aberdeen during his time.
Matthews designed The Grammar School, the Music Hall, the Palace Hotel and many other private residences throughout the city. Mr Matthews, however, besides securing a leading position as an architect, devoted many years of his life to public service eventually becoming Lord Provost of the City of Aberdeen in 1883.
Taken from the obituary of Mr Matthews in the Aberdeen Free Press 1898
