William Sampson was born in County Londonderry, and was educated at Trinity College, Dublin, and Lincoln's Inn, London. He was a United Irishman and held a commission in the Volunteers. He wrote for the The Press and The Northern Star, was arrested and deported to France and from there he went to America, where he rose to prominence as a lawyer. He published his Memoirs in New York and Discourse showing the Origin, Progress, Antiquities, Curiosities and Natures of the Common Law, which was recognised as an important contribution to local studies.

Born:	17 January 1764
Died:	28 December 1836