M.Y. Williams was born in Bloomfield, Ontario. He received his education at Queen's University (B.Sc., 1909) and Yale University (Ph.D., 1912). After teaching in public schools in Ontario and at both of his alma maters, Williams joined the University of British Columbia faculty in 1921. He helped to build the Department of Geology and Geography of which he served as head from 1935 to 1950, and he was amongst the pioneers in the development of the resources of British Columbia. Although he retired in 1950, he continued to contribute to geological scholarship and to the development of the department. Williams was awarded an honourary degree by UBC in 1972.
From the description of M.Y. Williams fonds. 1912-1968. (University of British Columbia Library). WorldCat record id: 606455969
