Ft. Wilson Riots

Fort Wilson Marker

Corner of Walnut and 3rd Sts.

This was the location of the Fort Wilson Riots. James Wilson was a signer of the Declaration and well respected in the Colonies. He was also a proponent of strict adherance to the rule of law, and he defended the rights of wealthy loyalist Philadelphians who sided with or helped the British during their occupation of Philadelphia. In 1778, a band of ramblerousers and militiamen stormed the house where Wilson was staying to tar and feather him and his guests and ride them out of town. Only the arrival of the military prevented the attack from succeeding, and after shots were fired and one militiaman was killed, Wilson and his friends were escorted to safety.

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