William Wirt Winchester was an American businessman born on February 22, 1837. He is best known as the treasurer of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company, a prominent firearms manufacturer in the 19th century. He played a significant role in the company's operations, particularly during the time when it became famous for its repeating rifles. Winchester was married to Sarah Winchester, who later became known for the Winchester Mystery House, a sprawling mansion in California. After William's death in 1881, Sarah inherited a substantial fortune and used it to build the house, which is famous for its architectural curiosities and legends surrounding it.