Francis Smith (Australian politician) facts for kids
Sir Francis Villeneuve Smith (born February 13, 1819 – died January 17, 1909) was an important Australian lawyer, judge, and politician. He was the fourth Premier of Tasmania, which means he was like the leader of the government for Tasmania from 1857 to 1860. Later, he became the Chief Justice of Tasmania, the top judge in the state.
Quick facts for kids
Sir Francis Smith
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| 4th Premier of Tasmania | |
| In office 12 May 1857 – 1 November 1860 |
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| Preceded by | William Weston |
| Succeeded by | William Weston |
| Chief Justice of Tasmania | |
| In office 1870–1885 |
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| Preceded by | Sir Valentine Fleming |
| Succeeded by | Sir William Lambert Dobson |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 13 February 1819 Port-au-Prince, Haiti |
| Died | 17 January 1909 (aged 89) London, England, UK |
| Nationality | English |
| Spouse | Sarah Giles |
| Profession | Lawyer |
| Signature |  |
Contents
Early Life in the West Indies
Francis Smith was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, a country in the Caribbean. His mother, Marie Josephine Villeneuve, had African heritage. In 1884, Francis Smith decided to use his mother's family name, Villeneuve, as part of his own.
His father, Francis Smith senior, was a merchant in Port-au-Prince. Francis Smith senior was born on the island of Nevis. His mother, Amelia Brodbelt, gained her freedom from slavery in 1765. She was known as a free woman of color.
Moving to Tasmania
Around 1821, Francis Smith's family moved to London, England. He was baptized there in 1821. A few years later, before 1824, they moved to Lindfield, a town in Sussex, England. His father bought a farm there before the family moved again.
In 1828, the family arrived in Sydney, Australia. After a short time in Sydney and then Hobart, his father bought two large pieces of land in Van Diemen's Land (which is now called Tasmania). His father became a farmer there.
Education and Law Career
Francis Smith grew up on his father's farm in Tasmania. He then returned to England to continue his education. In 1838, he began studying law at the Middle Temple and arts at University College London. He earned his degree in 1840. He became a lawyer in 1842.
After finishing his studies, he came back to Tasmania. In 1844, he was allowed to practice law in Tasmania. He quickly became a well-known lawyer, respected for his skills and knowledge.
Political Journey
In 1851, Francis Smith became a member of the Tasmanian Legislative Council, which was part of the government. Soon after, he became the Solicitor-General, a legal advisor to the government, a role he held until 1854.
In 1856, he was elected to the Tasmanian House of Assembly. He served as the Attorney-General from November 1856 to February 1857.
When the government led by William Weston ended, Francis Smith formed his own government. He became the Premier of Tasmania and also continued as Attorney-General. He held this important position for three years, from 1857 to 1860. He was the first Premier of Tasmania to serve for more than one year.
Judge and Later Life
In 1860, Francis Smith was appointed to the Supreme Court as a judge. He became the Chief Justice of Tasmania, the highest judge, in 1870. During his time as Chief Justice, he was known for making fair and well-reasoned decisions.
In 1862, he was knighted, which means he was given the title "Sir" by the Queen.
After a long and successful career in law and politics, Sir Francis Smith retired and moved back to England. He passed away on January 17, 1909, in Tunbridge Wells, England.
Family Life
Sir Francis Smith married Sarah Giles on August 26, 1851. Sarah was born in Ireland around 1832 and passed away in 1909. They had two sons and two daughters. One of their sons, Francis George Villeneuve Smith, also became a solicitor (a type of lawyer).
