Biographical Sketch of

Hon. Edgar Smith

Transcribed by Sandra Boudrou for the Marquette Co WI Pages


Source: Portrait and Biographical Album of Green Lake, Marquette and Waushara Counties, Wisconsin, 
published 1890 by Acme Publishing Co., Chicago, Page 680


Hon. Edgar C. Smith, who resides on section 19, Green Lake Township, Green Lake County, is the present 
Representative of his district in the General Assembly of his State, and is one of its most prominent 
citizens.  He is a son of Samuel W. and Almena (Conable) Smith, and was born on the 28th of December, 
1854, in the town where he still makes his home.  Having become familiar with the rudimentary branches 
of learning, he further pursued his studies in the Jefferson Liberal Institute, taking a course calculated 
to fit him for practical and common place duties of life.  After completing his literary education, he 
spent some time at Bryant & Stratton's Commercial College of Chicago, where he ended his school days.  
All he now lacked was the experience to make him a successful business man.  In 1875 he formed a 
partnership with J. L. Millard, they engaging in the mercantile business in Markesan for about four 
years, when the connection was discontinued, Mr. Smith selling his interest to his partner.  He then 
returned to his farm, continuing its cultivation for several years.  The people of the community, 
appreciating his worth and ability, in 1881 elected him to the position of Township Clerk, which 
office he held until 1884, when he was elected Sheriff of the county.  He made his home in Dartford 
while serving in that capacity, and on the expiration of his term returned to his farm.  In 1888 the 
voters of both parties united in choosing him as their Representative to the State Legislature, of 
which body he is now a member.  He is a Democrat in political sentiment, and is a member of the Masonic 
fraternity, belonging to Markesan Lodge, No. 55, A. F. & A. M.
 
On the 4th of October, 1876, Mr. Smith wedded Miss Mary Wilson, a native of Michigan, and a daughter 
of William W. and Elizabeth (Allen) Wilson.  Their home is blessed with the presence of one child, a 
little daughter, Edna May.  They hold a high position in the social world, and are widely known throughout 
the community, having many warm friends.
 
Mr. Smith's fine farm, in Green Lake Township, comprises 380 acres of arable land, and is furnished with 
excellent buildings and all the latest improvements.  He has formed a partnership with T. W. Miller, and 
the firm deserves not a little credit for their successful labors in introducing into the county such fine 
grades of stock, particularly horses.  As a citizen, Mr. Smith is liberal in his views of public policy, 
and is ever awake to the interests of the community.  His abilities, both natural and acquired, are such 
as to command respect and rank him among the foremost men of the State.






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