James Wilson

James Wilson (March 15, 1763 – March 26, 1855) was the first maker of globes in the United States.

Biography James Wilson was born in Londonderry, New Hampshire on March 15, 1763, the son of James Wilson and Elanor (Hopkins) Wilson. Wilson was raised and educated in Londonderry, farmed with his father, and trained as a blacksmith.

In 1813, Wilson opened the first geographic globe factory in the United States and sold his initial 13 inch globe for $50. Wilson increased his production to meet demand, and in partnership with his sons he opened a second factory in Albany, New York.

Family Wilson was first married to Molly Highland, who died in 1786. The Bradford rest area on Interstate 91 contains a historical marker indicating where his home and workshop stood and commemorating his accomplishments. The Bradford Historical Society Museum's collections include an 1810 Wilson Globe in a custom-made case, which was created by Bradford's Copeland Furniture Company.