Wilson Historical Society

06/18/2026

PLEASE SHARE: We need about 30 more volunteers to carry state flags during this Saturday's 'America 250' parade. If you are at least 10 years old and would like to featured in the parade, please contact John Sinclair at [email protected]. This would be a great activity for a group of classmates. scouts, athletes or family members to do together! For more information, please visit: https://www.wilsonhistoricalsociety.org/event-details/americas-250th-anniversary .

06/14/2026

Have you followed us on Instagram yet? It's just one more way we're bringing history to life! https://www.instagram.com/wilsonhistoricalsociety/

Hand tinted postcards were popular during the early 1900s, before true color photography became accessible and inexpensive. During the 'golden age of postcards' (1905-1915), photographers would often stage scenes like this to create idyllic images that would attract tourists and local residents.

06/12/2026

On June 12th, 1876 the first passenger trains passed through Wilson on the RW&O railroad. Dora Wakeman, one of the first trustees for the Historical Society, wrote about the event: "This was a day of celebration for Wilson. Stores closed, schools closed, everyone turned out – ministers, layman, rich and poor, big and little – in wagons, on horseback, and on foot they came to see the first train cross the Townline Road on the Lake Ontario Shore Division of the RW&O." For more information about the 'Hojack Line' that passed through Wilson, please visit our website: https://www.wilsonhistoricalsociety.org/depot-history .

06/09/2026

This is such a great way for little ones to recognize historically significant places throughout Niagara County, in honor of America's 250th birthday. Maybe it might inspire a summertime activity, visiting as many as you can? (Wilson Harbor is included on page 20.) Print your own copy at https://www.niagaracounty.gov/coloringbook .

06/08/2026

PLEASE SHARE: We are very excited to share our new website with you! In an effort to bring history alive and expand community outreach, we've created a space that is chock-full of Wilson history.
📸- For casual browsers, we've got tons of vintage photos with informational captions
🔎- For determined researchers, we've got searchable copies of Don Croop's historical sketchbooks and newsletters
🚂- For in-person visitors, we've got previews of the museum and grounds
✏️- For kids, we've got bookmarks and a 'test your knowledge' activity
🧭- For adventurers, we've got a sightseeing map that lists the locations of historical markers, cobblestone houses and maritime trail plaques

We hope you enjoy this one-stop shop, that brings the rich history and traditions of Wilson to life!

Provides history about the town and village of Wilson, New York.

06/06/2026

Today we remember the courage, sacrifice, and determination of our American service members who landed on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Their bravery helped change the course of history and secured freedoms that continue to shape our world today. For a closer look, please visit The National WWII Museum online at https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/topics/d-day-and-normandy-campaign

06/04/2026

Now that the weather has finally turned, it's a perfect time to hit the road and sightsee. Wilson is home to ten cobblestone homes, that date back to the 1800s. Roll the windows down, take in the sunshine and follow the attached map to see all ten houses in one short drive. Enjoy!

06/01/2026

*VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION POST*

Now that the annual Memorial Day Fair is over, its time to thank the volunteers that work behind the scenes all year long, to support the Historical Society. The museum and grounds require constant care and maintenance. Grass needs to be cut, repairs need to be made and monthly events require a steady stream of helping hands. Preparation for the fair itself begins months ahead of time, with coordination happening between many different groups. A large network of volunteers dedicates their entire weekend to making sure things go smoothly so that community members may enjoy their holiday with us. Special thanks to president John Sinclair, who works endlessly to make the fair and the Society itself so successful. Thank you to ALL our volunteers... you are appreciated!!

05/25/2026

Despite the wet conditions, today's Memorial Day Fair was very well attended and had plenty of activities for everyone. President John Sinclair offers his gratitude to all of the dedicated volunteers that put in countless hours behind the scenes to make the fair happen each year. You are appreciated!

Special thanks to Reverend Ralph Gardiner, Gary Pettit, Charles Horton and Gary Darnell from the American Legion Martin F. Jennings Post 0836 for being with us to raise the flag.

Congratulations to Robert Hull, who was recognized today for "decades of tireless dedication to the Wilson Historical Society and specifically the restoration and preservation of the New York Central Caboose."

Many thanks to everyone who spent Memorial Day with us. We are honored to host our community each year on this very special day! 🇺🇸

05/24/2026

** MEMORIAL DAY FAIR UPDATES**
- The car show is cancelled... please spread the word
- The rest of the fair is ON for tomorrow
- Because of the standing water, parking will be very limited. Please take advantage of the free shuttle bus service with stops at Wilson High School, St. Brendan's on the Lake Catholic Church, Exley Methodist Church and the Wilson Town Hall

Tomorrow, guests are invited to gather at the flagpole at 11:45 AM to join members of our own American Legion Martin F. Jennings Post 0836 for the flag raising ceremony (at noon) to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to our nation and remind us of the real meaning of Memorial Day.

The fair WILL kick off at 8 AM tomorrow, despite all the rain we received. Enjoy the historical displays inside the museum and the classic cars inside the Dr. Argue Memorial Building. Over 100 vendors will be on site taking part in the Super Flea Market, while food offerings will include Chiavetta's chicken BBQ, beef on weck, hot dogs, hamburgers, sausage, kettle corn, cotton candy and more. Join us for a fantastic day, from 8 AM - 4 PM at the Wilson Historical Society!