Wilson, Frank, 1887-1970

Frank John Wilson was born in Buffalo, New York in 1887. He served briefly in the U.S. Army during WWI, but was discharged in 1919 due to poor eyesight. In 1919, Wilson was the Chief New York state investigator for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In 1920, he briefly worked for the Department of Justice Fair Price Commission, before becoming an agent with the U.S. Treasury Department Internal Revenue Bureau Intelligence Unit, a position he would hold until 1936. During this time he was involved with investigations of Al Capone, the Lindbergh baby kidnapping case, and the Huey Long assassination. As Chief of the U.S. Secret Service from 1937-1946, Wilson launched the anti-counterfeiting "Know Your Money" campaign, instituted increased security measures for the president and other dignitaries, and began an educational campaign against wartime black market activities. After his retirement from government service, Wilson was a security consultant and published a series of Secret Service articles and an autobiography, "Special Agent" (1965). He also remained active in the U.S. Treasury Agents Association and served as president of the National Association of Retired Civil Employees from 1952-1960. He died in Washington, D.C. in 1970.

From the description of Frank Wilson papers, 1873-1971. (University of Wyoming, American Heritage Center). WorldCat record id: 30984070

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