This site is dedicated to the memory of Wilson
of Branson Crippin (1812-1890), the quest for whose identity was the
genesis of this project. He lies in an unmarked grave on Chincoteague
Island, in the Odd Fellows Cemetery on Willow Street.
"Born a slave, died a free man"
Jan. 3, 1891 Peninsula Enterprise
“ Wilson Branson, colored, died on the 25th ult., aged 80 years.
His father was one of the first negroes that moved to the Island, and
the first owner of real estate here of his race.”
