William Dawson

William Dawson (1704–1752) was an Anglican clergyman, poet and member of the Governor's Council of Virginia who became the second president of The College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia (1743–1752).

Early life and education Dawson was born in Cumberland, England in 1704. He began studies at Queen's College of Oxford University when he was 15 years old, graduated with a M.A. in 1728, and was admitted as a fellow of the college in 1733 (by which time he was living in the Virginia colony). His younger brother Thomas Dawson (1715–1760) also emigrated to the colony to become rector of Bruton Parish in Williamburg by 1743, and would become the fourth president of William & Mary (1755–1760).

Career Dawson was ordained in the Church of England before sailing to the Virginia Colony to become rector of the Jamestown Parish. He also taught moral philosophy at the College of William and Mary and succeeded Rev. James Blair as its president following Rev. Blair's death in 1742. Rev. Dawson also served as chaplain of the House of Burgesses during its sessions.

He published a 30-page book of poetry, Poems on Several Occasions by a Gentleman of Virginia, a copy of which George Washington owned.

Personal life Dawson's first wife was Mary Stith, a member of the First Families of Virginia. Her grandfathers were John Stith and William Randolph. They had three children; one grandson became North Carolina planter and politician, and eventually Congressman William Johnston Dawson. A facsimile edition of his poetry book was published in 1931. The college also has a portrait formerly thought to be of Dawson.