Legislator Details
Vital Records Information:
Marital Information:
married Sophia Maryette Smith, dau. of Dr. Justin Smith of Lima, NY, in the late 1830s; children: Justin Smith, Mary Irene, Frances (Wilbur) and Caroline (Fuller)
Number of Children: 4
Background
Education:
attended Fairfield Medical College
Biographical Sketch:
He was a native of Scipio, Cayuga County, NY. He completed his medical studies at age 19; his diploma was witheld until he was of age. He practiced medicine in Lima, NY for 2 years while waiting for his diploma. He moved to Clinton, MI in 1831. In 1832, in the capacity of a medical practitioner, accompanied a detachment of troops in their march through the wilderness to Chicago during the Black Hawk War; he was in charge of the care of those stricken with cholera. He moved to Hillsdale in 1844. In 1853 he was appointed "Agent for the sale of alcohol and spirituous liquors for medicinal and mechanical purposes". He was instrumental in passing the legislation that lead to the creation of Hillsdale College. He served as president of the city of Hillsdale twice. He was a member of the Sons of Temperance.
Notable Facts:
He was President, pro tempore near the end of his senate term.