William was the son of Jonathan Morris b.1845, a labourer on a water pipe track, and Hannah Maria Morris b.1844.

He appeared on the 1891 Census living at 25 Dale Street West, Horwich with his parents and 5 assorted lodgers.

William married Emily Wright b.1883 at Holy Trinity Church, Horwich in 1904.

In 1911 the couple were living at 16 Julia Street, Horwich with their children Jonathan b.1905, Mary b.1906 and Anne b.1910.

William was employed as a kiln setter at the time.