"Uncle Jimmy the Peacemaker. " Son of Sgt. James Turner Smith, veteran of American Revolution.

Born and educated in North Carolina. Lived for 32 years in Tennessee, where he taught James K. Polk, later a U. S. President.

Taught first school in area now DeWitt County, 1840 (year he came to Texas). Surveyed DeWitt County; was first county clerk. Organized Presbyterian churches at Victoria, Hochheim, Clinton, Peebles Ranch, Mill Creek, Live Oak, and Cuero. Organized first Masonic Lodge in county. At 1857 political rally, introduced old Tennessee friend, Sam Houston.