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. Appointed as a member of the Governor's Council in 1745, Dawson continued to serve in what was in effect the upper house of the Virginia General Assembly until his death. He published a 30-page book of poetry, Poems on Several Occasions by a Gentleman of Virginia, a copy of which George Washington owned.