William Stubbs

William Stubbs (1835 or 1836 – 16 March 1914) was a British trade union leader.

Stubbs grew up in Leek, Staffordshire, and became a shoemaker. He was a supporter of trade unionism, and became the secretary of the Silk Dyers’ General Society in the town, and by 1872 was also the secretary of the Silk Twisters' Society by 1872, while remaining a shoemaker. He was also active in the Ancient Order of Foresters.

In 1872, the unions put in a claim for a 10% wage increase, which they stated would still leave them earning less than other workers in the industry had already received. This was denied, and so Stubbs led a strike, increasing the demand to a 20% increase with extra for overtime. When the owners offered 10%, Stubbs persuaded the union to settle. He remained leader of the unions, which declined in membership.