James Lee “Jim” Townsend, 86, Warsaw, Indiana, passed away January 29, 2022 at Parkview Whitley Hospital, Columbia City, Indiana. Born March 11, 1935 in Muncie, Indiana, Jim was the son of the late James Henry and Jessie Ruth (Peasley) Townsend.

Jim began his professional career in the Tool and Die industry, working for a few companies before settling in with Dana Weatherhead Corp, Columbia City, Indiana, for twenty-five years. He also had an entrepreneurial spirit. In the 1960s Jim started two motorcycle shops, and in 1973 he founded James Townsend & Son, Inc, which makes reproduction 18th and 19th century clothing and personal accessories. His company has sent clothing and accessories all over the world and has been included in television shows and movies. Jim’s love for the 18th and 19th centuries began through his passion for muzzleloading rifles and reenactments.

The Townsends official Facebook page put out word this week of James’ passing with this to say:

It is with deep regret that we inform you that James Townsend has passed away over the weekend after complications from a heart attack. Many of you were friends with Jim. He started selling candle lanterns to the historical reenacting community in 1973, which turned into a catalog mail order company that was run out of his garage, and eventually turned into the Jas. Townsend and Son that you know today. For almost fifty years he enjoyed, encouraged, and supported the historical reenacting community. He will be missed

Jim started one of the most supportive and interactive living history supply companies, possibly ever. He may not have known it when he started in his garage, but he changed the lives of thousands of living historians and history lovers by offering quality items at an affordable price.

There is no doubt that Jim will be remembered for generations to come as one of the founders of the contemporary community. Thank you, Jim, may you rest in peace.