Columbia County NY Genealogy: The Wilson Family Papers

The Wilson Family Papers, an archival collection at the University of Michigan, provides a detailed look into life in Clermont, New York, and the surrounding areas during the late 18th and 19th centuries.

The collection primarily focuses on three generations of the Wilson family, particularly William Wilson (1756–1828), a prominent physician, judge, and estate manager for the influential Livingston family. The papers span the years 1704 to 1884, with the majority of the material dating from 1792 to 1884.

What’s in the Collection?

• Correspondence: Thousands of letters provide insights into family life, politics, and the local economy.
• Property & Legal Records: Contains deeds, land surveys, leases, and legal documents, mainly for properties in Columbia County and neighboring Dutchess County. This is especially valuable for pinpointing land and tracing families who were tenants on Livingston Manor.
• Financial Records: Detailed accounts and receipts from over 800 individuals, including laborers, merchants, and craftsmen. This offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives and transactions of ordinary people.
• Medical Records: William Wilson’s seven medical daybooks chronicle patient visits, diagnoses, and fees, providing a unique resource for those with ancestors who may have been his patients.
• Maps & Ephemera: The collection includes manuscript maps of land surveys and local election returns.

Why It’s Important for Columbia County NY Genealogy Research

This collection is a crucial resource for anyone with roots in the region. Because William Wilson was so deeply involved in the community as a physician, judge, and estate manager, his papers touch on the lives of hundreds of local residents—from his patients and tenants to merchants and neighbors. The records can help you:

• Locate ancestors who may not appear in other records.
• Find land records and trace property ownership.
• Discover occupations and community ties through financial accounts and correspondence.
• Gain a rich understanding of life in Columbia County and the broader Hudson Valley following the American Revolution.

This collection is an essential tool for going beyond typical census and vital records to discover the stories of your Columbia County ancestors.

Learn More About Columbia County NY Genealogy

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