Arthur Wilson (shipping)

Arthur Wilson (1836 – 1909) was a prominent English ship-owner who is best known for playing host to his friend Albert Edward, Prince of Wales at his home Tranby Croft, the scene of the Royal Baccarat Scandal.

Life

Arthur Wilson was born on 14 December 1836 in Hull, Yorkshire. His father was Thomas Wilson, owner of the Thomas Wilson Sons & Co. shipping business. His brother was Charles Henry Wilson, who was later created Baron Nunburnholme.

Like his brother, he was educated at Kingston College. He was associated with Charles throughout his life, and became the head of the business after his brother's death in 1907. Before this, he served as director of the North Eastern Railway, and chairman of the shipping committee of the Hull Chamber of Commerce. He became High Sheriff of Yorkshire for 1891.

Wilson's son Arthur entered Parliament as a Unionist for the Holderness division of Yorkshire in 1900. Wilson himself was active in protecting the Liberal interest in Yorkshire, but spoke against Gladstone's Home Rule bill, and joined the Liberal Unionist. In 1909, he spoke in favour of Tariff reform.

In 1907, he became head of the shipping business following the death of his brother, Charles Wilson, 1st Baron Nunburnholme.

He died of cancer, two years later.

Wilson was a generous benefactor to Hull, and is especially remembered for the Victoria Children's Hospital, for which he served as Chairman.

Royal Baccarat Scandal

Arthur Wilson is best remembered for playing...
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