(David Wilmot Birthplace), Bethany - In 1811 John Gustin built a house for Solomon Moore on a lot he had bought from Jason Torrey, surveyor and agent for Henry Drinker. Moore, who had arrived from New York State, kept a store in the house and was also the first Postmaster of Bethany. He also served as sheriff and clerk of courts. By 1814 the house had been acquired by Randall Wilmot and during that year on January 20 his son David was born there. David had an illustrious political career, being best known for his "Proviso". an attempt to prohibit slavery in territory being acquired from Mexico. He also is considered a founder of the Republican Party and was chairman of the platform committee at their first convention. In 1870 Mortimer E. Lavo purchased the house from Martin Walsh. His descendents owned it until 1994. when his granddaughter. Kathleen Sutton sold it to Zeke Boyle. a preservationist who is restoring it. Kathleen and her brother Keith were born there. Keith Sutton was sports editor for the Wayne Independent for many years and is remembered for his book on the history of Wayne County sports. Historic Preservation Award given in 1996 to Zeke Boyle for the restoration of this property.

This page was one month of the calendar and was made possible through the Wayne County Commissioners and a Tourism Promotion Committee’s Tourism Grant.