Born in London in 1548, William was the son of a draper but, at an early age, he became an apprentice under John Claywith who was a printer for the Queen.
William also served as a secretary to the last Catholic Archdeacon of Canterbury, Nicholas Hatfield, who died in prison for failing to renounce his faith.
Using his printing and publishing skills, William became part of an underground press which advocated for the Catholic faith, urging Catholics to stand firm in the face of persecution.
He was arrested, charged and imprisoned for eighteen months, during which time his wife passed away.
When he finally had a trial, it lasted just fifteen minutes.
After being convicted, he made a confession to a priest who was also being tried with him, and he was then hanged, drawn and quartered, on this day in 1584.
Blessed William Carter, please pray for us.