Richard Ernest "Ernie" Wilson was born on July 27, 1874, to parents John and Annie Wilson while they were visiting family in Canada. At the age of three months, Ernie's family returned to their farm near Alpena, MI. Growing up, Ernie assisted his family in all aspects of farm work, including hauling timber via horses and sleighs, which later proved to be a valuable asset when he joined the Alpena Fire Department in 1908. Initially hired as a teamster to manage a challenging pair of horses, Ernie went on to serve as a firefighter for the next 38 years, earning accolades for his expertise and proficiency. In 1914, he was appointed Fire Chief for the City of Alpena, a position he held with distinction.

As Fire Chief, Ernie oversaw significant changes in the department's infrastructure, expanding the team from a few regular employees augmented by volunteers to 22 full-time employees and the incorporation of a range of mechanized equipment. After his retirement in 1946, Ernie remained engaged in his passion for Alpena's history and American history. He displayed his extensive collection for public viewing on the second floor of Engine House No. 1, situated on the corner of Third Ave. and River St. Later, he relocated his personal collection to a storefront on River St. Following his passing in 1951, Ernie was interred at Evergreen Cemetery. Relevant cultural artifacts were transferred to the Jesse Besser Museum, now known as the Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan, while portions of his collection remained with his family and were eventually donated to the Alpena County George N. Fletcher Public Library.