William Wilson facts for kids

William Wilson is a very common name, so many different people throughout history have been called William Wilson! This page will tell you about some of the famous people who shared this name, from politicians and athletes to artists and scientists.

People Who Shaped History

Leaders and Politicians

Many people named William Wilson have been involved in politics, helping to lead countries and communities.

• William B. Wilson (1862–1934) was a Scottish-born labor leader and politician in the U.S. He worked to improve conditions for workers.
• William Lyne Wilson (1843–1900) served as the United States Postmaster General, which means he was in charge of the country's mail system.
• William Wilson (Coventry MP) (1913–2010) was a British Member of Parliament for many years, helping to make laws for his country.
• Bill Wilson (chief) (1944–2025) was a respected hereditary chief and politician in British Columbia, Canada, working for his community.
• William Wilson (mayor) (1819–1897) was the very first mayor of Christchurch, New Zealand, helping to build the city from its early days.

Sports Stars

The name William Wilson has also been carried by many talented athletes in different sports.

Football (Soccer)

• William Wilson (footballer, born 1921) was a Scottish football goalkeeper who played for teams like Queen of the South.
• Billy Wilson (footballer, born 1936) was a Northern Irish football player known for playing with Burnley.
• Willie Wilson (footballer, born 1894) was a Scottish footballer who played for famous clubs like Hearts.

Baseball

• Willie Wilson (baseball) (born 1955) is a well-known American baseball outfielder who played in Major League Baseball (MLB).
• Mookie Wilson (William Hayward Wilson, born 1956) was another famous MLB outfielder.

Other Sports

• William Wilson (aquatics) (1844–1912) was a Scottish writer who helped create the sport of water polo!
• William Wilson (swimmer) (born 1964) is a Filipino swimmer who competed for his country.
• Willy Wilson (born 1980) is a Filipino basketball player.

Creative Minds in Arts and Entertainment

Many William Wilsons have used their creativity in art, music, and writing.

• William Wilson (architect) (1641–1710) was an English architect, builder, and sculptor who designed beautiful buildings.
• William Wilson (artist) (1905–1972) was a Scottish artist famous for his stained glass, prints, and watercolors.
• William Scott Wilson (born 1944) is an author and translator, known for bringing samurai literature to English readers.
• Willie Wilson (drummer) (born 1947) is a drummer who has worked with famous bands like Pink Floyd.

Business Leaders

Some William Wilsons have been successful in the world of business.

• Willie Wilson (businessman) (born 1948) is a Chicago businessman, musician, and kind-hearted person who helps others.
• William Wilson was the founder of Price's Candles, a company that makes candles.
• Bill Wilson founded Wilson Combat, a company that makes firearms.

Military Heroes

Several individuals named William Wilson have served in the military, showing bravery and leadership.

• William Wilson (Medal of Honor) (1847–1895) was one of only a few people to receive the Medal of Honor twice for his incredible bravery.
• William Othello Wilson (1867–1928) was another recipient of the Medal of Honor, serving in the U.S. Army.
• William Tecumseh Wilson (1823–1905) was a Union general during the American Civil War.

Religious Figures

People named William Wilson have also played important roles in religious communities.

• William Carus Wilson (1791–1859) was an English churchman who founded and edited The Children's Friend, a publication for young people.
• Bill Wilson (pastor) (born 1948) is the founder of Metro Ministries International, an organization that helps children in need.

Scientists and Thinkers

The name William Wilson is also found among those who explored the world through science and research.

• William Wilson (botanist) (1799–1871) was an English botanist who studied plants.
• William Edward Wilson (astronomer) (1851–1908) was an Irish astronomer who studied stars and planets.
• William Wilson (physicist) (1887–1948) was an English-born physicist who studied how the world works at a basic level.
• William Julius Wilson (born 1935) is a famous sociologist who studies how people live in groups and societies.

In Stories and Songs

The name William Wilson has also appeared in books, songs, and comics!

• "William Wilson" is a short story written by the famous author Edgar Allan Poe in 1839.
• "William Wilson" is also the name of a song from the band The Smithereens' 1989 album 11.
• Wilson the Wonder Athlete (William Wilson) is a character from old British story and comic papers.

See also

• William Willson (disambiguation)