William Gurney (August 21, 1821 – February 2, 1879) was a soldier and statesmen from New York and South Carolina, who distinguished himself in the Civil War and within the craft of Freemasonry.

At the outbreak of the American Civil War he was a First Lieutenant in the Seventh Regiment, which he accompanied during its three months' term of service.

Morgan, in which position he was required to pass upon the qualifications of persons applying for commissions in the regiments of the State of New York.

On July 10, 1862 Gurney received authority to raise a regiment, and in 30 days recruited the 127th New York Volunteer Infantry.

On his recovery, he returned south and was assigned to duty as Commander of the post at Charleston, taking over the job from Stewart Woodford.

While in this position, Gurney was involved in an incident with Stephen Atkins Swails, the first African American Commissioned Officer.