William Walton (1675-1747)

He was born on Staten Island, New York. Early in the 18th century he purchased land on the East River on which he built "extensive shipyards" and while superintending the construction of his fleet he was referred to as "Boss" Walton. He sailed his own trading vessels to the West Indies and the Spanish Main, but secured the family's fortune for generations ahead by relieving the Spanish Government of Florida from a substantial debt. In return, they gave him "a practical monopoly of trade with their West India Islands and the port of St. Augustine" which included the contract to supply the garrison and with "a permanent factor at the Florida post". After his death, his shipping business was successfully continued by his sons, William and Jacob.