James Munro (23 January 1870 – 4 January 1899) was a Scottish footballer who played at inside forward in the 1890s. Career He played in The Football League for Bolton Wanderers and Burton Swifts, and later played for Swindon Town. Whilst at Swindon he also played half back, centre half, full back and on one occasion played in goal. He was made club captain when Swindon turned professional and was first professional player to play for the team earning 35 shillings a week. Death Munro died suddenly of meningitis on 4 January 1899. A few days before on New Year's Eve he had led Swindon in a 4–3 win against Tottenham in a Southern League match. Afterwards he was unwell and thought to have caught a cold, however he died shortly after. He was survived by his wife Helena Anne and five-month old daughter. Thousands turned out to watch his funeral procession which was led by the New Swindon Town Military Band and went from his home in Kent Road to the Trinity Presbyterian Church. He was buried in Radnor Street Cemerery in Swindon where a memorial was later erected. In 2021 a group of Swindon Town fans raised £1,500 to restore his memorial. References External links Swindon Town FC player profile 1870 births 1899 deaths Association football inside forwards English Football League players Bolton Wanderers F.C. players Burton Swifts F.C. players Swindon Town F.C. players Scottish footballers