religious leader Born: 1780 Birthplace: New Brunswick, New Jersey
Williams grew up to become active in the Methodist Church. In 1818, with the blessings of prominent white Methodist minister Thomas Lyell, Williams organized a black congregation in Harlem, St. Philip's African Church. In 1826 he became the first black Episcopalian priest. In 1827, Williams helped establish a black-owned abolitionist newspaper, Freedom's Journal. He also managed the American Anti-Slavery Society for two years. While his public reputation was damaged by allegations that he had performed an interracial wedding ceremony, he remained active with his church until his death.
