His father, James Smillie (1807–1885), a Scottish engraver, emigrated to New York in 1829, was elected to the National Academy of Design in 1851, did much, with his brother William Cumming (1813–1908), to develop the engraving of bank-notes, and was an excellent landscape-engraver.
Educated academic department, New York University, and private schools. Studied art under his father, and at schools of National Academy of Design.
Member of the United States Board of Indian Commissioners, since 1912. May, 1881, Anna C. Cook (died 1895). Made reputation as landscape engraver before becoming painter.
Associate 1865, and academician, 1876, National Academy of Design, and its treasurer, 1894-1899.
One of founders, 1866, treasurer, 1866-1871, and president, 1871-1877, American Water Color Society. Also a founder, secretary, and later president, New York Etching Club.
One of the “original fellows” of the Painter-Etcher Society of London, England. Studio: New York, New New York
Member of the United States Board of Indian Commissioners
Married year.
