Joseph Crowther Smith facts for kids

Joseph Crowther Smith (born September 26, 1818 – died December 26, 1886) was an important person in the town of Wolverhampton, England. He worked as a solicitor, which is a type of lawyer. He also served as the Mayor of Wolverhampton from 1865 to 1866.

Early Life and Education

Joseph Crowther Smith was born on September 26, 1818. His birthplace was Rushall, which is in Staffordshire, England. His father, Joseph Smith, was a rich miller who owned Rushall Mills. His mother was Ann Crowther.

Becoming a Lawyer

Joseph Crowther Smith decided to become a lawyer. He started his training on March 24, 1835. He worked as an articled clerk for Samuel Smith, a solicitor in Walsall. Joseph finished his training and became a qualified solicitor on June 12, 1840. By 1841, he had his own law practice in Wolverhampton. His office was at 19 Cock Street, which is now called Victoria Street.

Serving as Mayor

Joseph Crowther Smith became the Mayor of Wolverhampton in 1865. A mayor is a leader of a town or city. They help make important decisions for the community. Joseph's time as mayor was quite challenging.

Dealing with Cattle Plague

During Joseph Smith's time as mayor, a serious animal disease called cattle plague spread across the country. This disease affected many cows and other farm animals. It was a big problem from 1865 to 1866.

As mayor, Joseph Smith had to make sure Wolverhampton was safe. He created a plan to stop the disease from spreading. This plan included:

• Closing the town's cattle market and slaughterhouse.
• Stopping private cattle markets from operating.
• Making sure dead animals were disposed of safely.
• Putting rules on selling and moving cattle.

Thanks to these strong actions, the cattle plague was controlled in Wolverhampton. The disease finally disappeared in 1866.

The 'Wolverhampton' Lifeboat

On August 27, 1866, Mayor Smith attended a special event. This was the launch of the first lifeboat named 'Wolverhampton'. It took place at Showell Pool, Bushbury. A lifeboat is a special boat used to rescue people at sea.

The money to build this lifeboat was raised by the Wolverhampton branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). This group helps save lives at sea. Joseph Smith's wife had the honor of officially naming the lifeboat. The 'Wolverhampton' lifeboat later served in South Wales, helping people near The Mumbles in Swansea.

Personal Life

Joseph Crowther Smith married Matilda Bill Smith in 1855. She was from Brewood, Staffordshire. Joseph Crowther Smith passed away in 1886 at his home, Newbridge House, in Wolverhampton. Both he and his wife are buried in Brewood.