Thomas Assheton Smith (1752–1828) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Assheton Smith
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| Member of Parliament for Caernarvonshire |
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| In office 1774–1780 |
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| Preceded by | Thomas Wynn |
| Succeeded by | John Parry |
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| Born | 1752 |
| Died | 12 May 1828 |
Thomas Assheton Smith (born 1752, died 1828) was an important English landowner. He was also a great sportsman. He played a big part in growing the slate industry in Wales.
Contents
Early Life and Family History
Thomas Assheton Smith was the oldest son of Thomas Assheton. His family lived in Cheshire, England. His father added "Smith" to their family name. This happened when he inherited large estates from his uncle, William Smith. These estates were called Vaynol in Wales and Tidworth in England.
Public Service and Political Roles
Thomas Assheton Smith held several important public jobs. He was the High Sheriff of Caernarfonshire twice, from 1774 to 1775 and again from 1783 to 1784. He was also High Sheriff of Anglesey from 1784 to 1785.
He became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Caernarvonshire from 1774 to 1780. Later, he was an MP for the English town of Andover from 1797 to 1821. From 1822 until he died, he was the Lord Lieutenant of Caernarvonshire. This was a high-ranking official role.
Developing the Welsh Slate Industry
Thomas Assheton Smith greatly influenced the Welsh slate industry. In 1806, he helped pass a law in Parliament. This law allowed him to take control of over 2,600 acres of common land in Llanddeiniolen parish. This gave him the rights to the valuable slate found there.
When some people protested his new rights, he used a cavalry unit to stop the unrest. In 1809, he took over the slate quarrying on his land. He first formed a company with four members. Later, he took full control of the business himself.
Growth of Dinorwic Quarry
By 1826, his Dinorwic Quarry was very successful. It employed 800 men and produced 20,000 tons of slate each year. To help export all this slate, Assheton Smith developed a port. This port was called Port Dinorwic, which is now known as Y Felinheli.
Thomas Assheton Smith and Cricket
Thomas Assheton Smith was a very enthusiastic sportsman. He was especially known for his love of cricket. He was a close friend of George Finch, the 9th Earl of Winchilsea.
After the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) was started in 1787, Smith became one of the most important people supporting cricket. He wasn't the best player himself, but his son was very good. Thomas Assheton Smith played in 45 major cricket matches between 1787 and 1796. On the scorecards from that time, he was usually listed as "A Smith, Esq."
Family Life and Legacy
Thomas Assheton Smith married Elizabeth Wynn. They had several children. His oldest son, John, was removed from the family records after marrying a servant. His third son, William, fought in the famous Battle of Trafalgar on HMS Temeraire. Sadly, William drowned in 1806. Thomas Assheton Smith also had five daughters.
He passed away in 1828 at Tidworth. His second son, also named Thomas Assheton Smith (1776–1858), inherited the Vaynol and Tidworth estates. This younger Thomas Assheton Smith was also a famous amateur cricketer and sportsman.
