W. (William) McDonald

Born in 1820 and dying in 1901, he was a Methodist clergyman and a prolific religious author whose books were widely circulated in the 19th century. Surviving bibliographic records connect him with works such as The New Testament Standard of Piety, History of Methodism in Providence, Rhode Island, The Annihilation of the Wicked Scripturally Considered, and several hymn and tune collections.

His writing shows a strong connection to the holiness movement. Other records link him to The Life of Rev. John Allen, Better Known as "Camp-Meeting John", to Life of Rev. John S. Inskip, and to publishing activity around the Advocate of Holiness in Boston. Taken together, these sources suggest a minister deeply involved in revival preaching, devotional teaching, and preserving the stories of fellow Methodist leaders.

Readers who come across his books today will usually find clear, earnest prose aimed at ordinary believers rather than scholars. Whether he was writing church history, a biography, or a hymnbook, the tone was practical and encouraging, with a focus on worship, holiness, and everyday Christian life.