William Wilson (priest)

William Wilson (born 1783, died 1866) was a Church of England clergyman and antiquarian. He served as the vicar of Walthamstow, Essex, for over 50 years, from 1812 until his death. He was a notable local historian, known for his meticulous research and publications on the history of Walthamstow and its surrounding areas.

Wilson's principal work is The History and Antiquities of the Parish of Walthamstow, in the County of Essex (1860). This comprehensive volume detailed the social, religious, and economic development of the parish from the earliest times to the mid-19th century. It included information on local families, manorial records, church history, and topography. The book is considered a valuable source for researchers interested in the local history of Essex and remains frequently cited by historians.

Beyond his historical research, Wilson was a dedicated parish priest, known for his pastoral care and commitment to the welfare of his parishioners. He was also involved in various charitable activities within the community.

While primarily remembered for his local history work, Wilson also contributed articles to various periodicals and journals of his time on antiquarian and historical subjects. He was a member of several learned societies, reflecting his broader interests in historical scholarship.