He was the first of two North Carolina Governors since the American Revolution to serve nonconsecutive terms.

In 1775, Williams was appointed to the Second North Carolina Regiment; he served until 1781, was promoted to the rank of colonel, and fought at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse.

The North Carolina Constitution of 1776 limited the post of governor to three one-year terms within a six year period.

After three years had passed, Williams sought re-election to the position in 1805 but was defeated by Nathaniel Alexander.

His home called House in the Horseshoe, is a tourist attraction operated by the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources.