Shotbolt, Thomas, (Victoria), was born at Pinchbeck, Lincolnshire, England, in June 1842. He received his elementary education at his native place and then went to Horncastle, Lincolnshire, where he studied the drug business. At the age of twenty years he took his diplomas as a chemist and druggist, and immediately after left for British Columbia, which he reached by way of Panama. He came from Panama to Victoria in the steamer Golden Gate which was lost during her return trip. After spending one month in the employ of William Searly, now of San Francisco, Mr. Shotbolt established the business which he has conducted ever since, and which has increased Victoria's growth.
Mr. Shotbolt is a justice of the peace for the province of British Columbia and is a member of the Masonic order, St. George's Society and other friendly societies. In religion he is an adherent of the Episcopal church.
Biographical Dictionary of Well-Known British Columbians. With a Historical Sketch. By J.B. Kerr (Vancouver, B.C.: Kerr & Begg, 1890). pp. 287-288.