"Not your average Joe" - Biography of one of Lochaber's most influential people set to launch

The first biography of Joe Hobbs will be launched in Lochaber on Wednesday August 7 at 7.30 pm in the Highland Cinema in Cameron Square.

The book is titled ’Not Your Average Joe - The Life Story of Joseph William Hobbs (1891–1963) Whisky Entrepreneur and Freeman of the Burgh of Fort William’. The author is Tim Smith, a self-confessed “whisky nut”.

It was Hobb’s success with his whisky business that drew him to the life of this man who was born in England but spent much of his life in Canada. There he made and lost fortunes and built Vancouver’s first skyscraper, the Marine Building, which went £1 million over budget in 1930. 

Locally he is remembered for his purchase of the Great Glen which included the Ben Nevis Distillery and Inverlochy Castle.

The Great Glen Cattle Ranch Shelters along the A82 are iconic features in Lochaber all stemming from the days when Lochaber had cowboys thanks to Hobbs’ influence. He founded the shelters in 1945. 

Peter Hobbs, Joe’s grandson, will be attending the meeting and will contribute to the evening.

This is a unique opportunity to hear the story of an extraordinary life. The meeting is supported by The West Highland Museum.

Tickets are £8 and should be booked through the Highland Cinema – online or in person. 

Copies of the book will be available for £14.99.