James was the son of Thomas Robinson, a furnace-man and mother Rachel.
In 1861, James (18) was with his father Thomas (55, Wid) and older brothers William (27), John (23) and sister Mary (22) at 1 Willows Lane, West Bolton (Emmanuel).
Between 1867 and 1884, James and Ellen had 9 children, all births registered at Little Hulton.
In 1871, James and Ellen (28 & 25) were living in Deane Village, Rumworth with Martha (3), Thomas Hibbert (2) and Rachel (5mo).
Between 1871-81, Rachel and John Robinson (niece and nephew) came to live with James and Ellen.
In 1881, James and Ellen Robinson (38 & 35) were living at 307 Wigan Lane (Provision Shop) with their 8 children.
In 1891, James and Ellen Robinson (48 & 45) were living at 292 Wigan Road, Rumworth with their 9 children.
In 1901, James and Ellen Robinson (58 & 55) were living at 292 Wigan Road, Rumworth with 5 children: Martha (33), James (23), George (22), Frank (20), Ellen (17), and niece Rachel A Robinson (34, single)