Samuel Smith (Connecticut politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Samuel Smith
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| Deputy of the General Assembly of the Colony of Connecticut from Norwalk |
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| In office May 1691 – October 1691 Serving with Andrew Messenger
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| Preceded by | Christopher Comstock, Thomas Seamer |
| Succeeded by | John Belding, James Olmsted |
| Personal details | |
| Born | c. 1646 |
| Died | c. 1735 New Canaan, Connecticut Colony |
| Resting place | East Norwalk Historical Cemetery, Norwalk, Connecticut |
| Spouses | Rachael Marvin, daughter of Matthew Marvin Sr. (m. 1670) |
| Children | Rachel Smith Benedict, Sarah Smith, Lydia Smith Lockwood (m. James Lockwood), Hannah Smith, Nehemiah Smith, Ruth Smith, Samuel Smith, Jr. |
| Residences | Norwalk, Connecticut Colony |
Samuel Smith (born around 1646, died around 1735) was an important early settler in Norwalk, Connecticut. He was a leader who helped shape the early days of the Connecticut Colony. He even served in the government as a deputy for Norwalk in 1691.
Who Was Samuel Smith?
Samuel Smith was one of the first people to settle in Norwalk, Connecticut. He moved there when he was young. His father-in-law, Matthew Marvin Sr., helped him get started by giving him part of his home and orchard. This shows how early communities often helped new families.
Life in Early Norwalk
In 1672, Samuel Smith owned land in an area called "Indian Field." This land was close to where Norwalk and Westport are today. Owning land was a big deal back then. It meant you were a stable and important member of the community.
Serving His Community
Samuel Smith was very active in his town's government.
- In 1674, he became a freeman. This meant he was a respected adult male who could vote and hold public office.
- In 1679, he worked as the town treasurer. This job meant he was in charge of the town's money.
- He was part of a special committee that helped find a minister for the town. They chose Reverend Thomas Hanford. This was important for the spiritual life of the community.
- In 1691, he was a deputy for the Connecticut General Court. This was like being a representative for Norwalk in the colony's main government.
- He also served as a "townsman" in 1698, 1702, 1706, and 1712. A townsman helped manage the town's daily business.
- In 1702, he was a "selectman." Selectmen were elected officials who made important decisions for the town.
Around 1680 or 1681, Samuel Smith owned a four-acre home lot near a place called Strawberry Hill. This shows he continued to be a landowner and a settled part of the Norwalk community.
