Historic Hood River
Wilson Family
4-23-2018
Notes
Here are John and Nancy Wilson at their golden wedding anniversary on February 4, 1919. Joining them are (L-R) Grace, George, Laura, Lee (Ted), Viola (Peggy) Hiniah, Austin, and Flora. This picture was taken on the front porch of their home at 516 7th Street.
I believe this is the same John Wilson who built the Wilson Reservoir and the pipeline which powered the industrial buildings along the railroad tracks. He settled in Hood River in 1876.
Dale Nicol
For such a important event in the Wilson’s life, not a single smile in this photo.
Charlott
Mr. Wilson served in the Union army during the Civil War. He initially enlisted in a 90 day unit, the 8th Indiana Infantry. At the end of that period he re-enlisted in the 46th Indiana. He saw action in many of the battles and was wounded and taken prisoner at Mansfield, Illinois. He spent the next 8 months as a POW, being finally exchanged. At wars end he went north and married Nancy Chamberlain. For four years they farmed in Missouri before removing and farming in the Belmont area of Hood River.
This photo was taken 2 years prior to his death in 1921.
The daughter Flora, never married, in her final years roomed with my Grandfather and his wife. I am not certain, but think she had worked in the post office in town.
Smiles played an important role in photos. 1919 is pretty late for the old reason. The old reason was that at least during the 1800’s many people had lost their teeth and that is apparent in many of your old photos. Another reason, which would not apply to this was the fact it took so long for a picture to actually be taken the smiles would hav e to have been posed and not natural.
LMH
Arthur, this is a picture of the John Wilson family. However, I think the Wilson that built the Wilson reservoir was Joseph (Joe) A. Wilson.
nels
That is one huge oak tree, and it must have been there and well on in age when this photo was taken.
Judy
I do not agree about not smiling because of teeth loss, but very true about having to pose so long. Wonderful picture!
Kyle
Nothing but trees uphill of them back then.
Dave
The lot directly above them across Eugene St was still vacant in the early 60’s. We used to cut through it walking to school at Coe & Park St schools.
Bill Seaton
In the 1940’s & 50’s, we used to call this part of 7th Street "Catholic Hill".
nels
Thanks Charlotte for all the information. It makes the picture so much more meaningful. Now, what do you know about the man for whom Wilson Park is named at the east end of May St.? It mentions a Mr. Wilson teaching many kids about flying.
L.E.
Nancy Wilson is featured in a gathering at Samuel Blythe’s Twin Oaks Farm.
She is in the second row, second from the left.
https://www.hoodriverhistorymuseum.org?showimage=1652
L.E.
Another HHR photo connected to the Wilson Family, thanks to Charlott making the connection.
A photo of John Connell who married Grace Wilson.