Oswell Smith
Oswell Smith, merchant tailor, Washington, was born in that city in 1850, and is a son of James J. and Hannah Smith. His father is a native of Virginia, and came to Fayette County in 1832, and immediately afterward married the mother of our subject, who was a native of this county. The result of this union was six children, five sons and one daughter.
Oswell was married to Laura E., daughter of Rev. Richard and Hannah Pitzer, of Washington. They are blessed with one son, Jesse, seven years of age, and one daughter, Chloe, eighteen months old.
Mr. Smith was sheriff of the county from January 1, 1877, to January 1, 1881, inclusive. He is at present a member of the city council. Is also a member of the Odd-fellows, Knights of Pythias, and Royal Arcanum. His education was received in Washington, where his life, with the exception of three years, has been passed. He is now engaged in the merchant tailoring business, with Mr. Howat, under the firm—name of Smith & Howat. They occupy the "white hall" on Court Street, Washington, and are meeting with the success they merit.
From R. S. Dills' History of Fayette County