Francis H. Wilson was born in Pennsylvania. In November 1861, he received a commission as a 2nd lieutenant in the 5th United States Infantry. He was promoted to 1st lieutenant in July 1862. Union officials transferred him to the 3rd United States Cavalry in August 1862, and he was promoted to captain in November 1863. The regiment was stationed in Little Rock, Arkansas, from May 1864 until April 1866. Army officials then transferred the regiment to New Mexico. Wilson mustered out on October 25, 1870, and he died sometime afterward.