He represented Waterloo South in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario from 1879 to 1882 and in the House of Commons of Canada from 1882 to 1900 as a Liberal member.

A year later, Livingston moved to Conestogo in Waterloo County where he worked for flax growers, soon afterwards becoming manager.

The company expanded into the production of linseed oil at Baden, also opening a foundry and general store.

As both the Livingston family and business grew, James required the assistance of his new son-in-law, who managed the Michigan holdings.

Unfortunately "Castle Kilbride" sat vacant for number of years until the Township of Wilmot purchased it and restored it to its original Victorian Era beauty.