William Wood (botanist) facts for kids

William Wood (born May 29, 1745, died April 1, 1808) was an English minister and a scientist who studied plants. He was a Unitarian minister, which means he had different religious beliefs from some other Christian groups. He worked hard to help people who were not part of the main church (called Nonconformists) get fair treatment in education and politics.

A Life of Learning and Faith

William Wood was born in a small village called Collingtree, near Northampton. His father, Benjamin Wood, followed the teachings of Philip Doddridge. William went to school at Stephen Addington's school in Market Harborough.

From 1761, William studied to become a minister. He learned from several important teachers like David Jennings and Andrew Kippis.

William gave his first sermon in Debenham, Suffolk, in 1766. The next year, he became a minister in Stamford, Lincolnshire. He also preached in many places across London. William was officially ordained as a minister in Southwark.

For a while, he worked in Ipswich helping Thomas Scott. Then, in 1773, he took over from Joseph Priestley at Mill Hill Chapel in Leeds. Joseph Priestley himself, along with his close friend Richard Price, suggested William for the job.

William Wood stayed at Mill Hill Chapel in Leeds until he passed away. He was buried in the chapel's yard.

Fighting for Fairness

Even though his father was a Calvinist, William Wood had his own beliefs. He did not believe in the Trinity, which is a key idea for some Christians. However, he usually did not talk about these deep religious differences during his sermons.

William published several collections of his sermons. He also wrote a prayer book called Form of Prayers in 1801 for his church members.

William was very active in trying to change laws that were unfair to Nonconformists. These laws were called the Test and Corporation Acts. In 1789, he led a public meeting in Leeds. He also became a representative for his county on a committee in London that worked to get these laws removed.

William Wood also played a very important role in saving the Manchester Academy. When its leader, George Walker, left, the academy was in danger of closing. William suggested moving it to York and became a "visitor," which meant he helped oversee it.

His Love for Plants

While living in Leeds, William Wood started riding horses for his health. During these rides, he discovered a strong interest in botany, which is the study of plants.

He became very knowledgeable about plants. He even helped write parts of several encyclopaedias. His collection of dried plants, called a Herbarium, was given to the Leeds City Museum in 1951.

His Family

In 1780, William Wood married Louisa Ann Oates. She came from a wealthy family in Leeds. They had three sons and one daughter.

• Their oldest son, George William Wood, became a Member of Parliament for South Lancashire. He was also an important Unitarian in Manchester, a successful businessman, and a leader in his community.