About

Joshua Wilton, a Canadian immigrant, began his life in America in NY around 1850, where he met his life-long business partner, Philo Bradley. Wilton & Bradley moved to what is now Harrisonburg in the 1860's to begin their lives as successful entrepreneurs. In a small rural farming town, Wilton opened up a much-needed hardware store and utilized his fantastic manufacturing connections in Baltimore and NY to bring modern goods to the valley. He was able to provide farm equipment, housing goods, and many other items that were previously out of reach. With a successful hardware store, Wilton began to invest his money in other businesses, loaning out his earnings in carefully planned (mostly successful) business endeavors. Eventually, Wilton would hold rank as the President of the First National Bank, chairmen of the local hospital board, inspector of the county jail, founder of the Young Men's Christian Association, Treasurer for the Elk's Lodge, and much more.

After mastering business in an expanding town, Wilton had his home built beginning in 1880, with construction completed in 1888. It was one of the first homes wired for electricity, which over time, has given Wilton credit for "brining electricity" to the valley. It is also a rare example of a Queen Anne Victorian home in the south (Wilton fell in love with the style while living in New York). After Wilton's passing, the Shenk family owned the home for years, it became a boarding house, then apartments, then played host to the TKE Fraternity for just over a decade.

Around 1986, the home was purchased by Craig & Burt Moore, who spent two years renovating the home into what is now known as The Joshua Wilton House. The inn on the second story opened first, then the restaurant shortly after. Despite changing ownerships over the decades, the Wilton House has remained a staple for quality food, creative cocktails, and cherished history.

Since 1988, their home has opened its doors to guests from across the world. In that time, their staff has grown and changed with them, bringing decades of experience and personal flare, culminating in exquisite cocktails and cuisine. Below are galleries of their favorite images over the years. One can follow their social media accounts for current specials.