William Russell Smith facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Russell Smith
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Alabama's 4th district |
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| In office March 4, 1851 – March 3, 1857 |
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| Preceded by | Samuel Williams Inge |
| Succeeded by | Sydenham Moore |
| Member of the Alabama House of Representatives | |
| In office 1841-1843 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | March 27, 1815 Logan County, Kentucky, U.S. |
| Died | February 26, 1896 (aged 80) Washington, D.C., U.S. |
| Resting place | Mount Olivet Cemetery Washington, D.C., U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Signature |  |
| Military career | |
| Allegiance |  Confederate States of America |
| Service/ |
Confederate States Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1862 |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Unit | 26th Alabama Infantry Regiment |
William Russell Smith (born March 27, 1815 – died February 26, 1896) was an important politician from Alabama. He served in both the United States government and the Confederate government during the American Civil War.
Contents
Early Life and Education
William Russell Smith was born in Logan County, Kentucky. When he was young, his family moved to Alabama. He later attended the University of Alabama. In 1835, he became a lawyer.
Early Career in Alabama
In 1836, Smith served as a captain in the state troops. He was involved in a conflict with the Creek Native American tribes. Later, in 1839, he became the Mayor of Tuscaloosa.
From 1841 to 1843, he was a member of the Alabama House of Representatives. He also worked as a state judge for a short time, from 1850 to 1851.
Serving in Congress
William Russell Smith was elected to the United States House of Representatives four times. He represented Alabama's Fourth District. He served in this role from 1851 to 1857.
When the American Civil War began, Smith helped form the 26th Alabama Infantry Regiment. He was chosen as its colonel, which is a high military rank. However, he soon left his military role. He chose instead to represent Alabama in the Confederate Congress. He served there from 1862 to 1865.
After the War
After the Civil War ended, Smith went back to being a lawyer in Tuscaloosa. He also became the president of the University of Alabama. He held this position from 1869 to 1871.
William Russell Smith passed away in Washington, D.C. on February 26, 1896. He was buried at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Washington, D.C.
Images for kids
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William Russell Smith's signature
