Robert Wilson

Robert Wilson is a professional gunsmith who was first introduced to living history at the Alafia River Rendezvous in 1993, where he started learning about traders and mountain men of the late 1700s and early 1800s – the traders supplying the goods enabling the mountain men to trap – and the trappers supplying the traders with furs for sale and export. As his interest was sparked, he started studying extensively about traders, trappers, and their important role in society of early America. He studied the history of Florida – particularly how the steady movement of Europeans into Florida influenced the Native American habitants, including the two Seminole Wars. Over a decade ago, he became interested in the travels of William Bartram (in FL 1765-1777) and of Job Wiggins, his friend and interpreter, and the old trader at Spaulding’s Lower Store, which has now given him a new goal to incorporate that information as he does presentations throughout the State. William Bartram’s travels and studies provide an excellent means of communicating the expansive outdoor opportunities available in Florida through the many State Parks and recreational facilities. He constantly looks forward to discovering more historical events throughout the area to support.