William Henry Smith was a British entrepreneur whose business was about both newsagents and book shops.
Background
He was born in Little Thurlow, Suffolk, but ran his business in London, where he died. Born the son of Henry Walton Smith and Anna Eastaugh, William Henry Smith was brought up by his mother following the death of his father when he was only a few weeks old.
Career
The family business evolved into the chain West H Smith. In 1816 his mother died and the business was equally divided between the two brothers. William proved the more capable businessman of the two brothers, and the firm became known as West H Smith.
After his father"s death, the business was valued at £1,280 (about ~72185 in 2012, adjusted by inflation).
He is buried at Kensal Green Cemetery, London.