William Bray (antiquary)

William Bray (1736-1832) was an English antiquary and topographer, best known for co-authoring and continuing The History and Antiquities of the County of Surrey.

Born in Shire, near Guildford, Surrey, on November 11, 1736, Bray was educated at Rugby School and Exeter College, Oxford. He trained as a solicitor and practiced law throughout his life, holding positions such as Treasurer of the Society of Antiquaries. He was elected a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries in 1754.

Bray's major contribution to historical scholarship was his collaboration with Owen Manning on The History and Antiquities of the County of Surrey. Manning began the project, but died in 1801 before its completion. Bray took over the task, adding to and finishing the work, which was published in three volumes between 1804 and 1814. This comprehensive work provides a detailed account of the history, genealogy, and geography of Surrey, and remains an important resource for researchers today. Bray meticulously researched parish records, manorial documents, and other primary sources to provide a thorough and accurate account of the county's past.

Beyond his work on Surrey, Bray was involved in other antiquarian pursuits. He edited Evelyn's Diary and corresponded with numerous other scholars and historians of his time. He was also a keen observer of local affairs and left behind a significant collection of papers relating to the history of Surrey and its inhabitants.

William Bray died on December 21, 1832, at Shere, Surrey, and was buried in the churchyard there. His legacy rests primarily on his completion of The History and Antiquities of the County of Surrey, a lasting testament to his dedication to historical research and local history.