William Bulkeley (diarist)

William Bulkeley (1691–1760) was a Welsh gentleman farmer and lawyer, best known for the extensive diary he kept for almost forty years, providing a detailed record of rural life in 18th-century Anglesey.

Bulkeley was born in Llanfechell, Anglesey, and inherited the family estate of Brynddu. He was educated as a lawyer, though his primary focus remained on managing his estate. He served as a Justice of the Peace and held other local offices, affording him insight into the legal and social workings of the region.

Bulkeley's diary, covering the period from 1734 to 1760, is a significant historical document. It offers a rich and detailed picture of agricultural practices, weather patterns, social customs, family matters, local politics, and significant events in Anglesey during that era. The diary is considered a valuable source for historians studying social, economic, and agricultural history of Wales in the 18th century.

His meticulous recording of daily life, from the prices of goods to the occurrence of storms and the details of local disputes, makes the diary an invaluable resource for understanding the lives of ordinary people in rural Wales during the Georgian period. The diary has been transcribed and published, making it accessible to researchers and the general public.