History of Early Pioneer Families of Hood River, Oregon. Compiled by Mrs. D.M. Coon

JOSEPH A, WILSON AND FAMILY                           D.M.C.         1885

     Joseph Wilson came from Indiana County, Pa. He was born Oct. 17, 1854. His father was of English parentage, though born in Ireland, his mother was of Scotch descent of the Cameron clan.
     He was educated in Pa., and graduated at the State Normal School at Millersville. Prof. Brooks, the author, was one of his instructors and his opportunities were excellent. He followed the business of teaching until he came west. He then tried the lumber business, and in 1885 engaged in Government Survey.
     In Hood River he bought land and planted an orchard. He packed fruit that took grand prize for the State of Oregon and Wasco County, at the World's Fair in St. Louis, Missouri.
     He built a million gallon reservoir on the Heights, bringing the water from Indian Creek; the water being piped to the city for power purposes.
     On September 20, 1893, he was married to Miss Gertrude M. Kinsport of Pa. The wedding occurred at Cherrytree, the bride 's home.
     In 1897 Mr. Wilson went to Alaska, while his wife returned to Pennsylvania for a visit with her people. She died in February 1898, and the news did not reach him until three months later, so great is the isolation of that frozen country. They have one son, Porter Kinsport, who lives with his grandparents in Pennsylvania.
     Mr. Wilson is of a happy disposition and has hosts of friends in Hood River who value him and remember his many unobtrusive acts of kindness.

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