I am researching the Wilson family who came to prominence in Leeds during 17th century. Specifically Benjamin Wilson (1721-1788), youngest of 14 children to Major Wilson and Elizabeth Yates.
The Wilson families lived at Boarlane and Millhill. Two were Recorders of Leeds.
I can't trace the family back much further than Major's father, John Wilson (born about 1643 Borelaine).
Benjamin went to London where he had a successful career as a portrait painter and Sergeant Painter to George 111. He also was an FRS and did experiments in electricity. His painting of Benjamin Franklin is the oldest oil painting in the American White House.
He wrote a memoir, a copy of which is in the National Portrait Gallery, but the original was with the Wallis Wilson family who lived in Leeds in 1939. I haven't been able to find any trace of them.
Some of Benjamin's grandchildren added Wallis to their name because Benjamin's daughter married Admiral Provo Wallis - Admiral of the Fleet.
I am descended from one of his brothers, Joseph who also lived in London.
Thank you to anyone who can help.
DMW
