WILSON, WILLIAM SCOTT (1835-1902) was born in Tasmania, the son of W. C. Wilson (1807-76), with whom he came to New Zealand in 1841. His father entered into partnership with John Williamson in the New Zealander newspaper and printing business, to which William was apprenticed at the age of 11. He went through all branches of the trade and on completing his apprenticeship took charge of the printing department of the Herald. In 1863, owing to a difference of opinion on policy, the partnership was dissolved and W. C. Wilson with his sons started the New Zealand Herald. After his father's death (on 5 Jul 1876) a partnership was concluded with A. G. Horton, who had purchased the Southern Cross from Vogel and in Dec 1876 the papers were amalgamated. Besides participating in the control of the paper for many years, Wilson was a director of the Bank of New Zealand, the New Zealand Insurance Co. (chairman for many years), the Northern Shipping Co., the Accident Assurance Co., the Northern Boot Co. and the Riverhead paper mill. He was a staunch Wesleyan and a liberal supporter of the Y.M.C.A. Wilson died on 28 Jun 1902.

Cycl. NZ., ii (p); Morton, p. 43; NZ. Herald, 30 Jun 1902.

Reference: Volume 2, page 265

🌳 Further sources