William Wright was born in Finnard, County Down, and was educated at the Royal Belfast Academical Institution and Queen's College, Belfast. From 1865 to 1875 he travelled to Damascus as a missionary and became proficient in Eastern languages. He wrote about his travels and on theological subjects, and was editorial superintendent for the Bible Society. His The Brontes in Ireland, written with first-hand knowledge, caused considerable controversy. He died in London.

Born:	15 January 1837
Died:	31 July 1899