My Genealogy Hound

Capt. G. W. R. Smith, a prominent citizen of Madison County, was born in Madison County, Ala., January 10, 1827, and is a son of Simon P. and Ellen (Lee) Smith, natives of North Carolina and Virginia, respectively. The father went to Alabama when a young man and engaged in farming for a number of years, and in 1829 moved with his family to Arkansas, locating in Polk County. In 1830 he came to Madison County, where he died in 1863. The mother accompanied her parents to Alabama when a child, where she was reared and married. Her death occurred in 1860. The following children were born to her: W. A. G., G. W. R., Lucy J., Desdemona, Melissa, S. P., Frances and Nancy J. is now deceased. Our subject passed his youth on the place where he now lives, and where he has always been engaged in farming and stock raising. He organized Company G, of the First Arkansas Infantry, Federal army, in 1863, and served as captain of the same until the close of the war, after which he again devoted his attention to farming. He was one of the reconstruction officers after the war for three years. He is a public-spirited man, and was elected sheriff, holding that office four years. In 1850 he wedded Mary Ann Stotts, daughter of H. Stotts, who bore him one child, which is now deceased. Mrs. Smith also died, and in 1863 he was married a second time, Bethesda Bollinger becoming his wife. This lady is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. She has no children. Capt. Smith is a member of the G. A. R.