Exploring our Wilder side.
“What we receive by reaching our destiny is not nearly as important as what we become by stretching towards it.”
— Anonymous
This site was developed to honor our Wilder family line and celebrates our journey from the arrival of our founding father Thomas Wilder in ~1638 to today. Our Wilder history is filled with amazing stories of faith, family and courage. It spans 386 years and crosses the United States from east to west. We invite you to spend some time exploring our Wilder side. Be sure to visit our blog where we share Wilder stories, and contemplate many Wilder mysteries.
Wilder Cabin in the Woods
James Elias Wilder was a true pioneer who carved out a living for his family through hard work and grit, a trait inherent in Wilders. In the late 19th century, James and his eldest son Orenzo built a cabin in what is now known as the Mendocino National Forest. The family used the cabin as their summer camp and home while they herded their angora goats in the cool mountains of Northern California.
Wilder Reunions
For over 70 years Wilders have held good old fashioned family reunions and picnics in the area of Chico and Corning California. This year (2024) we will be moving the annual reunion to Red Bluff, California. We are looking forward to seeing our Wilder cousins and friends again this year. Note the photo you see here is from the first Wilder Reunion at Bidwell Park in Chico, California. Perhaps you recognize your family member. Read more about this years reunion.
Reverence for Reverend Wilder
I admire Reverend Moses Wilder for the work he did in the 1880’s capturing and documenting the Wilder family line. He gave many Wilder's the opportunity to share their stories, tell of their loved one’s births, deaths and accomplishments. He searched out to missing family lines and preserved for generations the legacy of Thomas Wilder in America. He did the difficult work, without computer, the telephone, DNA or the Mormons, and we are truly thankful.
Featured Cousin
Bessie Wilder
Bessie was born in 1895 in Paskenta, California. She was the daughter of James Elias Wilder and Sally Ann Wilder.
This site is dedicated to the descendants of Thomas Wilder. It captures their journey from England to Charlestown, Massachusetts and onward to Vermont, New York, Ohio, and Missouri, where after the Civil War, they made their final trek to California, Washington or Oregon. We invite you to explore the site, read the blogs and let us know about your Wilder family.
