Simon P. Smith

Simon P. Smith

SIMON P. SMITH, farmer, section 34, Ashland Township, was born in London, Ontario, Jan. 16, 1820. His parents, Jesse and Elizabeth (Fairchild) Smith, were natives of the Dominion and members of the agricultural community. There the son grew to manhood, and from 12 to 18 years of age worked during the summer seasons on his father's farm, and during the winters attended the common schools. In the spring of 1838 himself and parents came to Michigan and located where Grand rapids now stands. The now magnificent city was then an Indian village, containing besides the aborigines, but four white families. Mr. Smith was a resident there for 15 years, and in March, 1865, came to Newaygo County and located on 160 acres of land he had previously purchased, on section 34, Ashland Township. He experienced all the hardships incident to a pioneer settler in the depths of the uncut forest. By his own unaided efforts he has since placed 65 acres of land under improvements suitable for profitable farming, besides erecting good and substantial buildings.

Mr. Smith was married Oct. 18, 1843, to Sarah J. Daum, of Grand Rapids. Her parents were natives of New York, where she was born Nov. 28, 1828. They emigrated to Grand Rapids and their daughter resided there until her marriage. She died at her home in Ashland Township, Nov. 4, 1876, leaving two children, viz: Mary A., Aug. 20, 1844, and Wesley E., Dec. 30, 1851. James, born Dec. 23, 1849, died Jan. 3, 1850.

Mr. Smith is a Democrat in political connection, and for many years has served his community in a public capacity.

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