William Hayley (priest)

William Hayley (1696-1768) was an English clergyman and academic. He was born in Chichester, Sussex, and educated at Eton College and King's College, Cambridge. He was elected a Fellow of King's College in 1719. He served as a chaplain to George II.

Hayley held several church livings, including the rectory of Brightling, Sussex, and the deanery of Chichester Cathedral. He was known for his erudition and eloquence, and was a popular preacher. He was also a patron of the arts and sciences.

He is often confused with his grandson, William Hayley (1745-1820), the poet and biographer. To differentiate them, the elder William Hayley is usually identified as "William Hayley (priest)" or "William Hayley, the elder."

His will is accessible online, providing genealogical information.