Who is Capt. Wilson from Two Years Before the Mast and what is their importance?

Capt. Wilson is the skipper of Ayacucho. He is described as a short, active man of about 50 years. A seasoned seaman, Wilson does not hesitate to help the Pilgrim navigate the narrow San Diego harbor, and he issues the necessary orders to bring her to a safe berth.

In 1859, Dana meets an aged Capt. Wilson, a retired ranchero, aboard the steamer Senator, which ran from San Francisco to San Diego. Wilson is happy with Dana's coverage of his skill in his book. The two men go onto discuss old time ships, captains, crews, storms, and ladies.