William Armstrong (corn merchant)

William Armstrong (1778–1857) was an English corn merchant and local politician of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. He was also the father of prominent industrialist William Armstrong, 1st Baron Armstrong.

Armstrong was born in a small Cumberland village, where he came into acquaintance with the wealthy Losh family. These contacts were to help him gain a commercial foothold when he moved to Newcastle-upon-Tyne, joining a Losh-owned corn firm. Upon the proprietors' bankruptcy, Armstrong collected together the funds to establish his own corn firm: Armstrong, & Co.

Financially established, Armstrong was able to pursue his own interests. Armstrong took part local reformist politics. He and his allies, James Losh and Armorer Donkin, took up causes within Newcastle. Armstrong attempted to reform the administration of the River Tyne, to limited success. He entertained high society at the Newcastle Literary and Philosophical Society, warmly supporting its growth. Armstrong also pursued a recreational mathematical interest, contributing to some minor journals, and leaving a large collection of mathematical volumes to the society.