William H. Brown was a 19th-century American shipbuilder. He built yachts, paddle steamers and steamboats. He was one of the first shipbuilders in the country and had his business for more than thirty years having built over 300 vessels. He built the yacht America, which was the first winner of the America's Cup; the paddle steamer SS Arctic; and the sidewheel steamer Pacific, as well as other fine ships.

America was a 19th-century racing yacht and first winner of the America's Cup international sailing trophy.