W. G. Smith, M.D.
W. G. Smith, M.D., Palmyra, was born in New Wilmington, Lawrence Co., Penn., July 11, 1854, and is the eldest son of Samuel and Sarah (Banks) Smith, who were the parents of eight children, all of whom are now living: W. G., Robert, Ella S., Maggie E., Eddie, Edith, Ida and Samuel A. His father was a farmer and died at New Wilmington, Penn., in 1875. The subject of this sketch received his primary education in his native place, and there served as clerk in the postoffice, and also secured five years' experience in the drug business. During a greater portion of this time he studied medicine under the direction of Dr. A. C. Pettit. He was sober, industrious and frugal, securing means through his own exertions with which to educate himself. In September, 1875, he entered Miami Medical College, graduating in the class of 1877. In May of the same year he located in Palmyra. Though a stranger without means and in competition with old practitioners, from the first success attended his efforts, and his calls have been continuously increasing, until now he controls the largest practice in and about the township. He is a member of Portage County, Ohio State Medical Societies. Is connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church. The Doctor was married, October 26, 1879, to Mary A. Force, born in Palmyra, this county, March 12, 1862, daughter of David and Abigail P. Force, latter of whom died of heart and lung trouble at her residence in Palmyra, February 24, 1885. One child—Willie—is the living issue of this union.
From History of Portage County, Ohio, Warner, Beers & Co., Chicago, 1885