William Lancaster (politician)

Sir William Lancaster (1841–1929) was an English businessman, philanthropist and politician, the second Mayor of Wandsworth (1901–02) and the co-founder of Putney School of Art and Design.

He was educated at King's Lynn Grammar School and joined the staff of the Prudential Assurance Company in 1868, when he was 17.

He rose through the ranks of the expanding company and at the age of 33 he was appointed as its chief executive, with the title of Secretary.

In December 1920, he retired; his eldest son, John Roy Lancaster, a surveyor, succeeded him on the board.

He was a magistrate for the County of London, and Lord of the manor and ecclesiastical patron of East Winch.