William Vaughan (1752–1850), promoter of the London docks
1752 born in London, the second son of Samuel Vaughan, a London merchant, and his wife, Sarah daughter of Benjamin Hallowell of Boston, Massachusetts.
He and his elder brother Benjamin Vaughan resided with Dr Joseph Priestley whilst he was at school in Warrington.
1783 Elected a director of the Royal Exchange Assurance Corporation
1791 tried to form a society for the promotion of English canals but was unsuccessful
1793 turned his attention to docks, on which he became one of the first authorities. Starting published pamphlets advocating the construction of docks for the Port of London.
1796 Gave evidence before a parliamentary committee in favour of the bill for establishing wet docks.
Elected as a fellow of the Royal Society, the Linnean Society, and the Royal Astronomical Society
He was a member of the New England Corporation, and filled the office of governor until 1829.
1850 died in London, at his residence, 70 Fenchurch Street.
See Also
Sources of Information
- Biography of William Vaughan, ODNB