George Williams (philanthropist)
George Williams | |
|---|---|
Portrait by John Collier, originally in 1887 | |
| Born | 11 October 1821 Dulverton, Somerset, England |
| Died | 6 November 1905 (aged 84) London, England |
| Resting place | St Paul's Cathedral, England |
| Nationality | English |
| Occupation(s) | Philanthropist, businessman |
| Organisation | YMCA |
| Known for | Founding YMCA |
| Spouse |
Helen Jane Maunder Hitchcock
(m. 1853) |
| Children | 7 |
| Parents |
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| Signature | |
Sir George Williams (11 October 1821 – 6 November 1905) was an English philanthropist, businessman and founder of the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA). The oldest and largest youth charity in the world, its aim is to support young people to belong, contribute and thrive in their communities.
Williams was knighted by Queen Victoria in her 1894 Birthday Honours. He died in 1905 and is buried in St Paul's Cathedral. He is a great-great-great grandfather of Boris Johnson.