MACDONALD, WILLIAM (1840-90), who was born in Scotland, began as a pupil teacher at the age of 13, and later was tutor in the Larchfield Academy. Entering Edinburgh University, he graduated M.A. with honours and was for a time assistant to the classics professor. He was on the classical staff of the Edinburgh High School (1872-77). In 1874 he became president of the Educational Institute of Scotland. In 1877, having been selected as rector of the Otago Boys' High School, he was created an honorary LL.D. of Edinburgh University. In 1878 he took up the position in Dunedin, which he held until resigning in 1885. For three years he was a member of the Otago University council (1882-85) and he was first president of the New Zealand Educational Institute. He died on 16 May 1890.

Cycl. NZ, iv; Otago BHS. Reg. (p); Otago Daily Times, 13 Nov 1878, 17 May 1890, 3 Aug 1983 (p).

Reference: Volume 2, page 7

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