American ornithologist, poet, and author of the first monumental work on American birds, published in this country. A native of Scotland, migrating to America in 1794, he engaged in numerous occupations, weaving, teaching school, and editing. He became an intimate friend of William Bartram who influenced him strongly in the decision to launch his great work, American Ornithology. It was at the Bartram home where he became friends with Alexander Lawson, the engraver, whose encouragement pushed him along in the same project. He traveled extensively in the eastern United States, chiefly on foot, collecting the material for his work and later getting subscriptions for the published volumes. Although the Academy was only founded in 1812, Alexander Wilson was elected a member before he died in 1813.

This collection consists primarily of biographical material from various sources, very little original material being owned by the Academy, which has only a few autographs on photos or in books, with an occasional letter. Archived from various departments in the Academy.