James Rylands was on board the Eastland with his wife Minnie and oldest son John. When the boat rolled into the Chicago River, James could only save one of his two beloved: He saved his young son, planning to return momentarily and rescue his wife. When he returned, however, James could not find Minnie as she had drowned.
James owned a plumbing business and was a trustee for the city of Cicero. Minnie's mother lived at home with the Rylands.