Governor John Butler Smith

JOHN B. SMITH, the fifty-third governor of New Hampshire, was born in Saxtons River, Vermont on April 12, 1838. His education was attained at the Francestown Academy, and in the public schools of Hillsborough, New Hampshire. Before entering into politics Smith established a successful career as a businessman. He owned the Contoocook Mills Company, as well as developing holdings in the real estate and banking industries. Smith first entered politics in 1884, serving both as a presidential elector and an alternate delegate to the Republican National Convention. From 1887 to 1889 he served as a member of the Governor’s Council; and in 1890 he was chairman of the Republican State Committee. Smith next secured the Republican gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote in the 1892 general election. During his tenure, several Republican appointments were made to the labor and forestry commissions; and the county controlled asylum system was eliminated. After completing his term, Smith retired from political life. He continued to stay active in his various business interests. Governor John B. Smith passed away on August 10, 1914 in Hillsborough, New Hampshire.