 The Willson Group consisted of a set of close relatives whose work was funded by their family firm Willson, Walker & Co. in Leeds, due to the financial success of John Willson Senior, JP, (b. Claife or Hawkshead ) who lived at Old Hall, Barwick-in-Elmet and Roundhay, Leeds, in 1861, and 1 West Hill, Potternewton, Headingley in 1871.His wife was Margaret (b. Kendal ).John Wilson "(sic)" was mayor of Leeds between 9 November 1853 and 9 November 1854.