William Smith (Delaware politician)

William Smith (1797 - 1863[1]) was an American politician from Delaware.

William Smith
Delaware Senate
Delaware House of Representatives
Personal details
DiedDelaware, U.S.
SpouseMary DeHaven
Children10
Occupation
  • Politician
  • farmer
  • contractor

Early life edit

William Smith was born to John Smith. He grew up in Cecil County, Maryland. At a young age, he learned the trade of stone masonry and contracting.[2]

Career edit

Smith was a contractor on the Frenchtown Railroad, which was built around 1830. He also worked as a farmer.[2] In 1832, he moved to Delaware with his family.[2]

Smith was elected to the Delaware House of Representatives. He served two terms. He then served as a member of the Delaware Senate.[2] He served as a member of Governor William Tharp's staff.[2]

Personal life edit

Smith married Mary DeHaven, daughter of Jesse DeHaven. They had ten children, including Sarah, George I., Mary J., William H., Jacob R., James P., Samuel, Elizabeth and Winfield S.[2]

Smith died, aged 69, at his home in Delaware.[2]

References edit

  1. ^ "William Smith (1797-1863) - Find a Grave Memorial". www.findagrave.com. Retrieved January 16, 2024.
  2. ^ a b c d e f g Portrait and Biographical Record of Harford and Cecil Counties, Maryland. 1897. pp. 393–394. Retrieved October 24, 2023 – via Archive.org.