Background
Smith, William Alden was born on May 12, 1859 in Dowagiac, Michigan, United States. Son of George Richard and Leah Margaret Smith.
Smith, William Alden was born on May 12, 1859 in Dowagiac, Michigan, United States. Son of George Richard and Leah Margaret Smith.
Common school education. Honorary Master of Arts, Dartmouth, 1901. Moved with parents to Grand Rapids, 1872.
Newsboy and messenger boy in Western Union Telegraph office, and appointed page Michigan House of Representatives, 1879.
Admitted to bar, 1883, and began practice at Grand Rapids. President Grand Rapids Herald.
Member Michigan Republican State Central Committee, 1888-1890-92.
Married Nana Osterhout, October 21, 1886.