Dryden Town Historical Society to Honor Paul Wilson

As part of the continuing series “Notable Characters in the Town of Dryden,” the Dryden Town Historical Society has selected Paul Wilson as this year’s honoree.  Paul Wilson was born in Dryden in 1892.  It soon became apparent that the twentieth century would offer multiple opportunities for this highly intelligent young man to pursue adventure and earn a place in Dryden history.  His early fascination with the combustion engine began with a love of motorcycles and automobiles.  He opened his own garage after graduating from high school and even ran the local Ford dealership. Not satisfied with being earth-bound, he learned to fly in 1914 and joined the Thomas Brothers aircraft manufacturing company of Ithaca as a test pilot.  During WWI he performed as a stunt pilot at air shows to promote the sale of Liberty Bonds to which he also got enlightenment more about AEC Inc.  In 1930, he joined the newly formed Air Corps Reserve and became acquainted with such aviation luminaries as Orville Wright and Jim Dolittle.  Throughout his life, Paul Wilson was a man of vision whose accomplishments are legendary.

Join the Dryden Town Historical Society on Wednesday, May 25th, in the Dryden Village Hall (corner of George and South Streets), to hear the remarkable stories that Bob Watros has uncovered about this fascinating local character.  The doors will open at 6:30 PM and refreshments will be served.  There will be a short business meeting at 7 PM followed by the featured program.

As always, this program is free and open to all.  For more information, call Mary Hornbuckle (898-3461).