Born in Murton, County Durham, Williamson began his career at local sides before moving to London in 1913 to join Croydon Common.
[1] During World War I he served in the Royal Army Service Corps and also turned out for various teams as a guest, including over 120 appearances for Arsenal.
[1] After the war ended, Williamson officially signed for Arsenal, who had just been promoted to the First Division, for a £150 fee.
[4] However, by this time his Arsenal place was under threat; after conceding fourteen goals first in five matches during 1922–23 he had been dropped in favour of Dunn, and later Jock Robson.
[3] After playing for Division Three South Norwich for two seasons, Williamson retired from football altogether in 1925.