William Leighton (Lord Mayor of London)
Sir William Leighton | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1752 County Durham, England |
| Died | 1826-04-23 Kemnal House, Kent, England |
| Occupation(s) | Merchant, shipowner, politician |
| Years active | c.1779–1826 |
| Known for | Lord Mayor of London (1806), ownership of First Fleet ships |
Sir William Leighton (1752 – 23 April 1826) was a distinguished British merchant and shipowner who held the office of Lord Mayor of London in 1806.
Hailing from County Durham, Leighton relocated to London circa 1779 following the passing of his father. He established himself as a coal merchant, specializing in the shipment of coal from Newcastle and conducting business through Newcastle's Coal Exchange.
As an influential figure in maritime trade, Leighton possessed ownership of three vessels from the First Fleet—, , and —which were engaged in transporting convicts to New South Wales. Additionally, he owned ships that were commissioned by the British Navy to serve as military transports destined for the Province of Quebec.
Leighton's involvement in shipping extended to participation on multiple maritime committees.
Civic career
Leighton was affiliated with the Worshipful Company of Wheelwrights and was appointed alderman for the City of London's Billingsgate ward in 1799, a position he held until his resignation in 1821. In 1803, he was chosen to serve as one of the Sheriffs of the City of London.
In 1806, Leighton ascended to the role of Lord Mayor of London and received knighthood on 1 May of that year. By 1825, records indicate he served as a governor for Christ's Hospital.
Leighton passed away at Kemnal House in Kent in 1826; prior to this, he had lived in Charlton.