Captain R. Wilson Public School

Captain R. Wilson (1806-1888) was a resident of Oakville and the captain of two Lake Ontario schooners, the 'Lady Colborne' and 'Baltic.' Captain Wilson was instrumental in aiding escaped slaves to the safety of the harbour at Oakville. The African American escapees were concealed in the grain vessels aboard his ship. ‘Captain Robert,’ as he was known, built a house (at 279 Lawson Street), which became known as Mariner's Home, because of his custom of welcoming and accommodating ill and homeless sailors during the winter months. Captain Wilson was also an important member of the Temperance Union.