Wilson is best known for knocking in 191 runs in 1930 for the Chicago Cubs—a major league single-season record that still stands. That same season, he also hit 56 home runs, which was the National League record for decades. He played 12 seasons for the Giants, Cubs, Dodgers, and Phillies, and was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979.

Wilson began his minor league career in Martinsburg with the Blue Sox. Standing 5'6", the stocky power hitter quickly became a fan favorite. During his major league days, he often visited Martinsburg, where after retirement, he ran a pool hall and helped coach sports. After struggling with finances and alcohol, he died in Baltimore, where his body was unclaimed. The people of Martinsburg brought him home and buried him with honor.