Source:  Goodspeed’s History of Lawrence, Wayne, Perry, Hickman, and Lewis Counties Tennessee, published 1886

William R. Smith, a prominent and energetic farmer of Lawrence County, Tenn., is a native of the county, born February 22, 1841, the second son of William and Allie (Nelson) Smith, both born in Tennessee. The father was one of the pioneer settlers, and his lived on his present farm, near Lawrenceburg, since he was eight years of age. Both parents are yet living and are hale and hearty. Up to the age of twenty years our subject resided on a farm, and secured a common school education. At the breaking out of the war he enlisted in Company I, Third Tennessee Regiment, and served first as private, and afterwards as sergeant. He was captured at Fort Donelson, and for seven months was imprisoned at Camp Douglas, Chicago. He was exchanged at Vicksburg, and was made sergeant of Company K, Third Tennessee Regiment, and remained such until October, 1864, when he was taken prisoner at Jonesboro, and remained in captivity until the close of the war. He then returned home and farmed on his father’s land until 1867, when he purchased a farm in Alabama. In 1877 he purchased his present place, on which he has been extensively engaged in farming and stock raising. In 1867 he united his fortunes with those of Miss Ruth Springer, and seven children blessed their union, two of whom are dead. Those living are A. Wildie, Robert N., Jonas C., Louisa and Mary T. Matilda J. died in August 1885, and Sarah C. in April, 1870. Mr. Smith is a Republican of the old Whig type, and he and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

FamilySearch Tree profile:  https://www.familysearch.org/tree/person/details/GMH9-DT7

---

This biographical sketch was transcribed by Reita Jones Burress and posted on-line by Jane N. Powell on September 10, 1998, with the following caveat:

Not having a hard copy to proof read, errors will probably occur in the following document. Reita and I will correct them to the original Goodspeed from time to time. Thank you for your patience.

If you have corrections or wish to provide more information about the individual, please contact us (link in menu).