Wilson in Niagara County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Lake Street and Young Street
Photographed By Anton Schwarzmueller, November 13, 2013
1. Lake Street and Young Street Marker
Young Street and Lake Street. This large cobblestone building was built in 1844 as the home of Luther Wilson. Luther was the eldest child of Reuben Wilson, the founder of our town. In 1890, the families of Luther Wilson and his son Reuben F. Wilson held a double funeral in the parlor of this home, as the father and son had died five days apart. The home became the Wilsonian Club in the 1920's and later, a restaurant following World War II.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Buildings. A significant historical year for this entry is 1844.
Location. 43° 18.593′ N, 78° 49.563′ W. Marker is in Wilson, New York, in Niagara County. Marker is at the intersection of 300 Lake Street (New York State Route 425) and Young Street, on the right when traveling north on 300 Lake Street. Both markers for this site are just before the traffic light. The other marker is First School House. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 300 Lake Street, Wilson NY 14172, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. First School House (here, next to this marker); Schooner Fleetwing (within shouting distance of this marker); Pettit Street and Chestnut Street (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Wilson Collegiate Institute 1845 (approx. 0.2
this page online
Regarding Lake Street and Young Street. Luther Wilson was elected to the State Assembly the same year that this house was built. While residing here, he engaged in many local enterprises. He built the first piers at Wilson Harbor, dredged the harbor for 20 years, and established a shipyard and a warehouse there for for trading in fruit and grain. He was the first President (now Mayor) of the Village of Wilson in 1858 and served as a Captain in the state militia. He donated land for several churches and for Greenwood Cemetery where he was interned at age 92.
While the "Wilsonian Club" until 1947, the house featured dances and bowling. It is currently a restaurant and inn.
Reference: Croop, Donald W., Wilson Sketchbook, Wilson Historical Society, 1994
Also see . . .
1. Wilson House Restaurant and Inn. Website
Photographed By Anton Schwarzmueller, November 30, 2013
2. Wide Eastward View
The Lake Street and Young Street marker, covered with snow, is to the left of the post that holds the traffic light cable. The First School House marker is immediately next to the tree on the right.
2. Wilson Historical Society. Town website entry (Submitted on December 2, 2013, by Anton Schwarzmueller of Wilson, New York.)
3. Cobblestone Society Museum. Has information about cobblestone masonry. (Submitted on December 2, 2013, by Anton Schwarzmueller of Wilson, New York.)
Additional keywords. cobblestone
Photographed By Anton Schwarzmueller, November 29, 2013
3. Corner view of Wilson House Restaurant and Inn
Note repairs to this corner of the building; was struck by a truck many years ago. The foundation appears to be newer. The stone blocks for the corners (quoins), windows and watertable are cut limestone.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 2, 2022. It was originally submitted on December 2, 2013, by Anton Schwarzmueller of Wilson, New York. This page has been viewed 451 times since then and 8 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on December 2, 2013, by Anton Schwarzmueller of Wilson, New York. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
