William Adams (January 25, 1807 – August 31, 1880), son of John Watson Adams, was an influential American Presbyterian minister born in Colchester, Connecticut. Educated at Yale College and Andover Theological Seminary, he served effectual pastorates in Brighton and New York City—most notably at Madison Square Presbyterian Church—and later became President of Union Theological Seminary. Adams also served as Moderator of the General Assembly in 1852. Adams was beloved as a pastor and known for his skilled, powerful preaching, extensive writings, and leadership in the church. The University of the city of New York gave him the degree of D.D. in 1842, and Princeton College that of LL.D. in 1869.