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| JOSEPH SMITH, farmer, sec. 31, Green Tp., was born near Toronto, Can., Aug. 1, 1847, and is the tenth child of William and Esther (Caller) Smith, natives of England, who left the old country and became pioneers of York Co., ONt. The father was a farmer by occupation, and died July 13, 1881. The mother is still residing on the homestead, which has been in the possession of the family nearly 50 years. Mr. Smith was reared on his father's farm to the age of 14 years, when he commenced t learn the wagon-making trade. After one and one-half years' labor he turned his attention to blacksmithing for about four months, when he resumed farming. In the fall of 1865 he came to Michigan and located first on the Big Prairie, in Newaygo County, where he passed ten years, going thence to Barton Tp., where he also purchased a farm. In the fall of 1879 he bought his homestead, consisting of 65 acres of land, of which he has 35 acres improved. Mr. Smith was married April 13, 1866, to Nancy M., daughter of John and Minerva Miller, born Jan. 17, 1847, in Kent Co., Mich. Her parents were natives of Vermont. The family includes an adopted daughter, Mabel M. (Haight) Smith. Mr. Smith is one of the most esteemed citizens of the township. Himself and wife are members of the Christian Church, and he is a Republican in his political views. |