My Genealogy Hound

Robert W. Smith, farmer and magistrate of the Ninth Civil District of Hardeman County, is a native of what is now Chester County, but at that time was a part of Henderson. He was born March 17, 1847, and is the fourth of six children, all now living born to Dr. John D. and Isabella (Dickson) Smith. They were married in Chester County about the year 1841. The father was a physician of large practice, and spent thirty years of his life in this profession. He was probably of English extraction; was a native of North Carolina, born in 1804 and died in Chester County, January 25, 1881. The mother was of Scotch-Irish descent, born in 1807, and died in Chester County in 1851. They were both influential members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Robert W. was principally educated at the college for gentlemen at Jackson, Tenn., and after completing his education he taught school for two years. In 1870 he formed a partnership with William G. Moore, and established a general merchandise store, which business he soon exchanged for the more congenial occupation of farming. In 1871 he took charge of the farm where he now lives, a portion of it coming into his possession by his marriage. He now owns 1,500 acres of land, six improved lots in the town of Henderson, and a steam cotton-gin and grist-mill. August 25, 1869, Mr. Smith married Miss Hattie A. Ham, daughter of Daniel and Harriett Ham. The father died June 1, 1871, and the mother is still living, making her home with her daughter. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have two children: E. Frank, born August 3, 1874, and Joseph Dickson Smith, an adopted son. Mr. Smith has held the office of magistrate for eight years, is a Democrat, and he and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.