Frederick H. Smith is a graduate of De Veaux College, and received a practical business education in the office and under the instruction of his father. When quite young he started out with a view to entering upon an independent business career, and, coming to Peoria, became established as the General Agent of a fast-freight line, representing Eastern railroads, in which he remained until 1891. On May 27th of the latter year he was married to Sarah Brockway, of Saginaw, Michigan, and since that time has devoted his attention chiefly to real estate and general business in the city of Peoria. His wife inherited a large fortune, and the care of it has devolved largely upon her husband. He is a director in the Merchants’ National Bank of Peoria, besides being interested in timber and lumber lands in the States of Wisconsin and Washington. He has been quite successful in his business affairs, and is considered a man of sound judgment and good business capacity.

In recent years Mr. Smith has become quite prominent in local politics, and is recognized as a force in State politics as well. After the inauguration of Governor Tanner’s administration, and on the accession of Governor Yates was reappointed to the same position. Under the last two administrations it has developed upon him and his amiable wife to entertain the representatives of the State Government in visits to Peoria, and this they have done in a most generous and hospitable manner.

At the Republican State Convention held in Peoria in 1900 Colonel Smith was selected as a delegate from the Fourteenth Congressional District to the Republican National Convention of that year, was Committeeman on “Rules and Order,” and performed his duty to the general satisfaction of the members of his party throughout the State. During the last year he was named by Governor Yates as Commissioner in connection with the Charleston Exposition, was elected President of the Commission and had charge of the Illinois Department during the exhibition. He is, and always has been, a Republican in politics and for three years past has been President of the Kickapoo Club, a large and well-known Republican organization of much influence. The club does not engage in active local politics but was organized to keep alive and foster the spirit of true Republicanism, and to keep in remembrance the anniversaries of National characters, with an idea of fostering and perpetuating a spirit of patriotism among its members and the community generally. He is also a member of the Country Club of Peoria, And has been its President , beside being President of the Central Illinois Golf Association, and was First Vice-President, and afterwards President, of the Peoria Corn Exposition and Carnival Association of 1901.

Colonel Smith has purchased a beautiful house upon the Bluff, and is prominent in social circles in the city of Peoria. His genial and affable manners, his kindliness, his courtesy and generosity have made for him many warm friends, not only in the city, but throughout the State at large, where he has a wide acquaintance. The fact is generally recognized that he is destined to hold the position in social, political and business affairs which he has already achieved.

The home of Colonel and Mrs. Smith is always open to their friends, and its hospitality is greatly enjoyed by a large circle who always meet a cordial and friendly welcome.

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