Show ContentsSmith History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Smith is an Anglo-Saxon name. The name was originally given to a metalworker (the blacksmith). It is derived from the Old English word smid, probably derived form "smitan," which meant "to strike with a hammer." As metal worker was such a common and important profession in Medieval times, this name and its cognates are extremely widespread throughout the British Isles and Europe. However, there is some debate as to why the occupation of blacksmith would lead to such a populous surname. One might expect that Farmer, also an occupational name, but with far more people involved in the profession in the Middle Ages, would today be a much more populous surname than Smith. It is probably a futile exercise to try to establish a single source for this amazing, monumentally prolific surname.

Early Origins of the Smith family

The surname Smith was first found in Durham, in present day Northumbria (North-Eastern England) where an Olde English version of the name is cited in circa 975, almost 100 years before the Normans would invade this part of England.

Some of the family moved to Mount Thoydon in Essex. "The church [of Mount Thoydon] is a handsome edifice, containing many fine monuments to the family of Smyth, among which is one to Sir Thomas Smyth, chancellor of the garter, and principal secretary of state, in the reigns of Edward VI. and Elizabeth." [1]

"Wootton Hall [in Wooton-Wawen, Warwickshire] was early the seat of the Smythe family, of whom was Lord Carrington, who, at the battle of Edge-Hill, bravely redeemed the royal standard, as is recorded on his monument in Christ-Church, Oxford. Over the front entrance of the Hall are the arms, finely executed in relief, of Lord Carrington. " [1]

"The extensive manor of Mitchell-Morton, which stretches into the parishes of Kilkhampton, Moorwinstow, and Jacobstow, in Cornwall, and Week St. Pancras in Devonshire, is generally denominated from this parish. This large manor belonged, about the year 1660, to the family of Smith." [2]

Early History of the Smith family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Smith research. Another 94 words (7 lines of text) covering the years 1100, 1279, 1559, 1568, 1608, 1611, 1616, 1617, 1621, 1631, 1640, 1644, 1649, 1650, 1652, 1653, 1655, 1657, 1658, 1661, 1662, 1663, 1665, 1675, 1679, 1681, 1691, 1696, 1699, 1701, 1717, 1720 and 1890 are included under the topic Early Smith History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Smith Spelling Variations

One relatively recent invention that did much to standardize English spelling was the printing press. However, before its invention even the most literate people recorded their names according to sound rather than spelling. The spelling variations under which the name Smith has appeared include Smith, Smyth, Smythe and others.

Early Notables of the Smith family

Notables of this surname at this time include:

  • Richard Smith (1568-1655), officially the Bishop of Chalcedon, the second Catholic bishop for England, Wales and Scotland after Catholicism was banned in England in 1559
  • John Smith (c. 1608-1657), an English politician who sat in the House of Commons from 1640 to 1644, supported the Royalist cause in the English Civil War
  • John Smith (died 1663) English-born immigrant to the Massachusetts Bay Colony c. 1631, 3rd President of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations (1649-1650), 6th President of Providence a...
  • Admiral Sir Jeremiah Smith (Smyth) (died 1675), English officer of the Royal Navy who saw service during the First and Second Anglo-Dutch Wars
  • Erasmus Smith (1611-1691), an English merchant, landowner and philanthropist in Leicestershire

Smith World Ranking

In the United States, the name Smith is the 1st most popular surname with an estimated 2,501,922 people with that name. [3] However, in Canada, the name Smith is ranked the 1st most popular surname with an estimated 192,145 people with that name. [4] And in Quebec, Canada, the name Smith is the 178th popular surname. [5] Newfoundland, Canada ranks Smith as 3rd with 1,521 people. [6] France ranks Smith as 861st with 5,920 people. [7] Australia ranks Smith as 1st with 212,493 people. [8] New Zealand ranks Smith as 1st with 13,667 people. [9] The United Kingdom ranks Smith as 1st with 566,946 people. [10] Netherlands ranks Smith as 347th with 4,490 people. [11] South Africa ranks Smith as 22nd with 125,534 people. [12]

Ireland Migration of the Smith family to Ireland

Some of the Smith family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt.
Another 88 words (6 lines of text) about their life in Ireland is included in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.


United States Smith migration to the United States +

At this time, the shores of the New World beckoned many English families that felt that the social climate in England was oppressive and lacked opportunity for change. Thousands left England at great expense in ships that were overcrowded and full of disease. A great portion of these settlers never survived the journey and even a greater number arrived sick, starving, and without a penny. The survivors, however, were often greeted with greater opportunity than they could have experienced back home. These English settlers made significant contributions to those colonies that would eventually become the United States and Canada. An examination of early immigration records and passenger ship lists revealed that people bearing the name Smith arrived in North America very early:

Smith Settlers in United States in the 17th Century
  • Mr. John Smith, who arrived in Virginia in 1611 aboard the ship "Elizabeth" [13]
  • Mr. William Smith, who arrived in Virginia in 1618 aboard the ship "Sampson" [13]
  • Mr. John Smith, who arrived in Virginia in 1619 aboard the ship "Bona Nova" [13]
  • Osmond Smith, who arrived in Virginia in 1620 [14]
  • Capt.John Smith, British settler who arrived in Virginia in 1620 aboard the ship "Abigaile" [15]
  • ... (More are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Smith Settlers in United States in the 18th Century
  • Elinor Smith, who landed in Virginia in 1704 [14]
  • John William Smith, aged 14, who landed in New York in 1711 [14]
  • Crispianus Smith, who landed in Virginia in 1712 [14]
  • Augustine Smith, who arrived in Virginia in 1713 [14]
  • Ambrose Joshua Smith, who arrived in Virginia in 1714 [14]
  • ... (More are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Smith Settlers in United States in the 19th Century
  • Charles R Smith, who arrived in New York in 1801 [14]
  • Jenny Smith, aged 26, who arrived in New York, NY in 1803 [14]
  • Jeremiah Smith, who arrived in Allegany (Allegheny) County, Pennsylvania in 1803 [14]
  • M E Smith, who landed in Pennsylvania in 1804 [14]
  • Matt Smith, who arrived in America in 1805 [14]
  • ... (More are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Smith Settlers in United States in the 20th Century
  • Joe Smith, who landed in Arkansas in 1904 [14]
  • Jens Nissen Smith, who arrived in Wisconsin in 1914 [14]
  • Charles Victor Smith, who landed in Alabama in 1918 [14]
  • Christian Anholm Smith, who landed in Wisconsin in 1922 [14]
  • Agnes Sybil Smith, aged 26, who arrived in Colorado in 1948 [14]

Canada Smith migration to Canada +

Some of the first settlers of this family name were:

Smith Settlers in Canada in the 17th Century
Smith Settlers in Canada in the 18th Century
  • James Smith, who arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia in 1749-1752
  • James Smith, who arrived in Nova Scotia in 1749
  • Constantine Smith, who arrived in Nova Scotia in 1749
  • Mark Smith, who arrived in Nova Scotia in 1749
  • Martha Smith, who landed in Nova Scotia in 1750
  • ... (More are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Smith Settlers in Canada in the 19th Century
  • Donald Smith, who landed in Nova Scotia in 1801
  • James Smith, who landed in Canada in 1812
  • John Smith, who arrived in Canada in 1812
  • Neil Smith, who arrived in Red River, Canada in 1812
  • Michael Hayden Smith, who arrived in Canada in 1812
  • ... (More are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Smith Settlers in Canada in the 20th Century
  • Miss M A Smith, who landed in Saint John, New Brunswick in 1907

Australia Smith migration to Australia +

Emigration to Australia followed the First Fleets of convicts, tradespeople and early settlers. Early immigrants include:

Smith Settlers in Australia in the 18th Century
  • Mrs. Ann Smith, (nee Overy), (b. 1750), aged 37, English convict who was convicted in Winchester for theft, transported aboard the "Charlotte" on 13th May 1787, arriving in New South Wales, Australia, she was moved to the Charlotte, she died in 1837 [17]
  • Miss Hannah Smith, (b. 1758), aged 29, English convict who was convicted in Gloucester. Glouceser Quarter Sessions for 7 years for stealing, transported aboard the "Charlotte" on 13th May 1787, arriving in New South Wales, Australia, she died in 1826 [17]
  • Mr. William Smith, (b. 1755), aged 32, English convict who was convicted in Dorchester Assizes for 7 years for burglary, transported aboard the "Charlotte" on 13th May 1787, arriving in New South Wales, Australia, he died in 1830 [17]
  • Mr. John Smith, English convict who was convicted in Worcester, Worcestershire, England for 7 years, transported aboard the "Barwell" in September 1797, arriving in New South Wales, Australia [18]
  • Mr. John Smith, English convict who was convicted in London, England for 7 years, transported aboard the "Barwell" in September 1797, arriving in New South Wales, Australia [18]
  • ... (More are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Smith Settlers in Australia in the 19th Century
  • Mr. James Smith, (Oldfield), (b. 1780), aged 20, English rope maker who was convicted in Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, England for 14 years, transported aboard the "Earl Cornwallis" in August 1800, arriving in New South Wales, Australia, he died in 1824 [19]
  • Mr. James Smith, British Convict who was convicted in London, England for 7 years, transported aboard the "Earl Cornwallis" in August 1800, arriving in New South Wales, Australia [19]
  • Mr. John Smith, British Convict who was convicted in Middlesex, England for life, transported aboard the "Earl Cornwallis" in August 1800, arriving in New South Wales, Australia [19]
  • Mr. Robert Smith, British Convict who was convicted in London, England for 7 years, transported aboard the "Earl Cornwallis" in August 1800, arriving in New South Wales, Australia [19]
  • Miss. Ann Smith, Irish convict who was convicted in Dundalk, Ireland for 7 years, transported aboard the "Atlas" on 29th November 1801, arriving in New South Wales, Australia [20]
  • ... (More are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Smith Settlers in Australia in the 20th Century
  • "Miss Hannah Smith, (b. 1810), aged 18, English servant who was convicted in Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, England for 7 years for stealing, transported aboard the ""Competitor"" on 9th June 1828, arriving in New South Wales, Australia" [21]
  • "Miss Maria Smith, (b. 1806), aged 22, English needle woman who was convicted in Middlesex, England for life for house breaking, transported aboard the ""Competitor"" on 9th June 1828, arriving in New South Wales, Australia" [21]
  • "Miss Mary Ann Smith, (b. 1806), aged 22, English servant who was convicted in Middlesex, England for life for stealing, transported aboard the ""Competitor"" on 9th June 1828, arriving in New South Wales, Australia, daughter of Ann Rolph" [21]

New Zealand Smith migration to New Zealand +

Emigration to New Zealand followed in the footsteps of the European explorers, such as Captain Cook (1769-70): first came sealers, whalers, missionaries, and traders. By 1838, the British New Zealand Company had begun buying land from the Maori tribes, and selling it to settlers, and, after the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, many British families set out on the arduous six month journey from Britain to Aotearoa to start a new life. Early immigrants include:

Smith Settlers in New Zealand in the 19th Century
  • Mr. Michael Smith, Australian settler travelling from Hobart, Tasmania, Australia aboard the ship "Bee" arriving in New Zealand in 1831 [22]
  • Mr. Samuel Smith, Australian settler travelling from Hobart, Tasmania, Australia aboard the ship "Bee" arriving in New Zealand in 1832 [22]
  • Mr. John Smith, Cornish settler travelling from Launceston, UK aboard the ship "Brazil Packet" arriving in Hokianga, North Island, New Zealand in 1836 [22]
  • Charles Smith, who landed in Bay of Islands, New Zealand in 1836
  • William Smith, who landed in Bay of Islands, New Zealand in 1836
  • ... (More are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)

West Indies Smith migration to West Indies +

The British first settled the British West Indies around 1604. They made many attempts but failed in some to establish settlements on the Islands including Saint Lucia and Grenada. By 1627 they had managed to establish settlements on St. Kitts (St. Christopher) and Barbados, but by 1641 the Spanish had moved in and destroyed some of these including those at Providence Island. The British continued to expand the settlements including setting the First Federation in the British West Indies by 1674; some of the islands include Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Island, Turks and Caicos, Jamaica and Belize then known as British Honduras. By the 1960's many of the islands became independent after the West Indies Federation which existed from 1958 to 1962 failed due to internal political conflicts. After this a number of Eastern Caribbean islands formed a free association. [23]
Smith Settlers in West Indies in the 17th Century
  • Mr. Daniell Smith, (b. 1614), aged 20, British settler travelling from London, UK arriving in St Christopher (St. Kitts) on 5th January 1634
  • Mr. Thomas Smith, (b. 1617), aged 17, British settler travelling from London, UK arriving in St Christopher (St. Kitts) on 5th January 1634
  • Mr. Thomas Smith, (b. 1613), aged 21, British settler travelling from Gravesend, UK aboard the ship "Hopewell" arriving in Barbados on 17th February 1634 [14]
  • Mr. Alexander Smith, (b. 1616), aged 18, British settler travelling from Gravesend, UK aboard the ship "Hopewell" arriving in Barbados on 17th February 1634 [14]
  • Mr. Daniell Smith, (b. 1538), aged 96, British settler travelling from Gravesend, UK aboard the ship "Hopewell" arriving in Barbados on 17th February 1634 [14]
  • ... (More are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)

Contemporary Notables of the name Smith (post 1700) +

  • Kathryn Elizabeth "Kate" Smith (1907-1986), American singer and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, best known for her rendition of Irving Berlin's "God Bless America"
  • Willard Carroll "Will" Smith Jr. (b. 1968), American actor, rapper, and film producer nominated for five Golden Globe Awards and two Academy Awards, and has won four Grammy Awards, best known for The Fresh Prince, as well as blockbuster movies The Pursuit of Happyness, I, Robot and Bad Boys
  • James Smith (1719-1806), of Pennsylvania, one of the signers of the American Declaration of Independence
  • Richard H. Smith (1945-2024), American politician
  • Alexis Smith (1949-2024), born Patti Anne Smith, an American visual artist who worked in collage and installation
  • Robert "Bingo" Smith (1946-2023), American professional basketball player
  • Hampton Lee Smith (1934-2023), American football and baseball coach
  • Wallace Bunnell Anthony Smith (1929-2023), American who was Prophet-President
  • Robert William Smith (1958-2023), American composer, arranger, and teacher
  • Kieran Smith (b. 2000), American swimmer, who won bronze at the 2020 Olympic Games
  • ... (Another 218 notables are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)

Air New Zealand Flight 901
  • Miss Betty Louise Smith (1933-1979), New Zealander passenger, from Whangarei, North Island, New Zealand aboard the Air New Zealand Flight 901 for an Antarctic sightseeing flight when it flew into Mount Erebus; she died in the crash [24]
Arrow Air Flight 1285
  • Mr. Scott John Smith (1963-1985), American Specialist 4th Class from Louisville, Kentucky, USA who died in the Arrow Air Flight 1285 crash [25]
  • Mr. Rex V Smith (1949-1985), American Sergeant 1st Class from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, USA who died in the Arrow Air Flight 1285 crash [25]
  • Mr. Clinton Duane Smith (1966-1985), American Private from Conyers, Georgia, USA who died in the Arrow Air Flight 1285 crash [25]
  • Mr. Thomas E Smith (1965-1985), American Private 1st Class from Brooksville, Florida, USA who died in the Arrow Air Flight 1285 crash [25]
Empress of Ireland
  • Mr. Joseph Smith, British Assistant Steward from United Kingdom who worked aboard the Empress of Ireland (1914) and survived the sinking [26]
  • Mr. Harry Smith (d. 1914), British Assistant Saloon Steward from United Kingdom who worked aboard the Empress of Ireland and died in the sinking [26]
  • Mr. Thomas John Smith, British Baker from United Kingdom who worked aboard the Empress of Ireland (1914) and survived the sinking [26]
  • Mr. Walter Beaumont Smith (d. 1914), British Bedroom Steward from United Kingdom who worked aboard the Empress of Ireland and died in the sinking [26]
  • Mr. Albert E. Smith (d. 1914), British Engineer ex Empress of Asia from United Kingdom who worked aboard the Empress of Ireland and died in the sinking [26]
  • ... (Another 10 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Fraterville mine
  • Mr. John Smith (d. 1902), "Red", American coal miner at Fraterville mine in Tennessee, on the 19th May 1902 when an explosion collapsed the mine; he died [27]
  • Mr. Forrest Smith (d. 1902), American coal miner at Fraterville mine in Tennessee, on the 19th May 1902 when an explosion collapsed the mine; he died [27]
  • Mr. Rob Smith (d. 1902), American coal miner at Fraterville mine in Tennessee, on the 19th May 1902 when an explosion collapsed the mine; he died [27]
  • Mr. R. H. Smith (d. 1902), American coal miner at Fraterville mine in Tennessee, on the 19th May 1902 when an explosion collapsed the mine; he died [27]
Grover Shoe factory
  • Mr. George E. Smith, American employee of the Grover Shoe factory in Brockton, Massachusetts on 20th March 1905 when the boiler exploded and collapsed the wooden building; he died [28]
Halifax Explosion
  • Mrs. Annie  Smith (1860-1917), Canadian resident from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada who died in the Halifax Explosion (1917) [29]
  • Master Kenneth H  Smith (1917-1917), Canadian resident from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada who died in the Halifax Explosion (1917) [29]
  • Mrs. Agnes  Smith (1869-1917), Canadian resident from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada who died in the Halifax Explosion (1917) [29]
  • Mr. Harold Francis  Smith (1917-1917), Canadian resident from Cunard, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada who died in the Halifax Explosion (1917) [29]
  • Mrs. Bertha  Smith (1878-1917), Canadian resident from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada who died in the Halifax Explosion (1917) [29]
  • ... (Another 8 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Hillcrest Coal Mine
  • Mr. Thomas Smith (1874-1914), English Miner from England, United Kingdom who worked in the Hillcrest Coal Mine, Alberta, Canada and died in the mine collapse [30]
  • Mr. Robert Smith (1885-1914), Scottish Miner from Hamilton, Lanarkshire, Scotland, United Kingdom who worked in the Hillcrest Coal Mine, Alberta, Canada and died in the mine collapse [30]
Hillsborough disaster
  • Paula Ann Smith (1962-1989), English football supporter who was attending the FA Cup semi-final at Hillsborough Stadium, in Sheffield, Yorkshire when the stand allocated area became overcrowded and 96 people were crushed in what became known as the Hillsborough disaster and he died from his injuries [31]
HMAS Sydney II
  • Mr. Roy Somerville Smith (1921-1941), Australian Stoker from Gaythorne, Queensland, Australia, who sailed into battle aboard HMAS Sydney II and died in the sinking [32]
  • Mr. Ronald George Singleton Smith (1921-1941), Australian Engine Room Artificer 4th Class from Thornbury, Victoria, Australia, who sailed into battle aboard HMAS Sydney II and died in the sinking [32]
  • Mr. Douglas William Charles Smith (1917-1941), Australian Engine Room Artificer 4th Class from Port Pirie, South Australia, Australia, who sailed into battle aboard HMAS Sydney II and died in the sinking [32]
  • Mr. William Harrison Randall Smith (1913-1941), Australian Engine Room Artificer 3rd Class from East Richmond, Victoria, Australia, who sailed into battle aboard HMAS Sydney II and died in the sinking [32]
  • Mr. Ernest Edward Frederick Smith (1920-1941), Australian Able Seaman from Subiaco, Western Australia, Australia, who sailed into battle aboard HMAS Sydney II and died in the sinking [32]
  • ... (Another 7 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
HMS Cornwall
  • Thomas Gregory Smith (d. 1942), British Cook S aboard the HMS Cornwall when she was struck by air bombers and sunk; he died in the sinking [33]
  • Joseph Smith (d. 1942), British Sick Berth Attendant aboard the HMS Cornwall when she was struck by air bombers and sunk; he died in the sinking [33]
  • John William Smith (d. 1942), British Able Seaman aboard the HMS Cornwall when she was struck by air bombers and sunk; he died in the sinking [33]
  • Harry Smith (d. 1942), British Marine aboard the HMS Cornwall when she was struck by air bombers and sunk; he died in the sinking [33]
  • Allan Cameron Smith (d. 1942), British Chief Stoker aboard the HMS Cornwall when she was struck by air bombers and sunk; he died in the sinking [33]
  • ... (Another 1 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
HMS Dorsetshire
  • Ronald Smith (d. 1945), British Ordinary Seaman aboard the HMS Dorsetshire when she was struck by air bombers and sunk; he died in the sinking [34]
  • Frederick Thomas William Smith (d. 1945), British Leading Stoker aboard the HMS Dorsetshire when she was struck by air bombers and sunk; he died in the sinking [34]
  • Allon Smith, British aboard the HMS Dorsetshire (1945) when she was struck by air bombers and sunk; he survived the sinking [34]
  • Allan Nesbit Smith, British Sub Lieutenant (A) aboard the HMS Dorsetshire (1945) when she was struck by air bombers and sunk; he survived the sinking [34]
HMS Hood
  • Mr. William G Smith (b. 1901), English Able Seaman serving for the Royal Navy from Banbury, Oxfordshire, England, who sailed into battle and died in the HMS Hood sinking [35]
  • Mr. Walter H Smith (b. 1920), English Leading Seaman serving for the Royal Navy from Hackenthorpe, Sheffield, England, who sailed into battle and died in the HMS Hood sinking [35]
  • Mr. Thomas Smith (b. 1922), English Ordinary Seaman serving for the Royal Navy from Sunderland, County Durham, England, who sailed into battle and died in the HMS Hood sinking [35]
  • Mr. Thomas N Smith (b. 1920), English Stoker 1st Class serving for the Royal Navy from Odiham, Hants, England, who sailed into battle and died in the HMS Hood sinking [35]
  • Mr. Stephen R Smith (b. 1921), English Able Seaman serving for the Royal Navy from Stoughton, Guildford, Surrey, England, who sailed into battle and died in the HMS Hood sinking [35]
  • ... (Another 18 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
HMS Prince of Wales
  • Mr. Wilkinson Smith, British Lieutenant Instructor, who sailed into battle on the HMS Prince of Wales (1941) and survived the sinking [36]
  • Mr. Harry Smith, British Marine, who sailed into battle on the HMS Prince of Wales (1941) and died in the sinking [36]
  • Mr. George Smith, British Marine, who sailed into battle on the HMS Prince of Wales (1941) and survived the sinking [36]
  • Mr. Alexander Smith, British Able Seaman, who sailed into battle on the HMS Prince of Wales (1941) and survived the sinking, also sailed aboard the HMS Sultan [36]
  • Mr. Smith, British Stoker 1st Class, who sailed into battle on the HMS Prince of Wales (1941) and died in the sinking [36]
  • ... (Another 8 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
HMS Repulse
  • Mr. Walter Smith, British Petty Officer, who sailed into battle on the HMS Repulse (1941) and survived the sinking [37]
  • Mr. William Smith, British Petty Officer, who sailed into battle on the HMS Repulse and survived the sinking, but later died in December 1941 [37]
  • Mr. Alexander Smith, British Ordinary Seaman, who sailed into battle on the HMS Repulse (1941) and died in the sinking [37]
  • Mr. Ernest Smith, British Able Bodied Seaman, who sailed into battle on the HMS Repulse (1941) and survived the sinking [37]
  • Mr. Richard Smith, British Able Bodied Seaman, who sailed into battle on the HMS Repulse (1941) and died in the sinking [37]
  • ... (Another 8 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
HMS Royal Oak
  • William Smith, British Marine with the Royal Marine aboard the HMS Royal Oak (1939) when she was torpedoed by U-47 and sunk; he survived the sinking [38]
  • John H. Smith, British Regulating Petty Officer with the Royal Navy aboard the HMS Royal Oak (1939) when she was torpedoed by U-47 and sunk; he survived the sinking [38]
  • George Smith, British Seaman with the Royal Navy aboard the HMS Royal Oak (1939) when she was torpedoed by U-47 and sunk; he survived the sinking [38]
  • Arthur W. Smith, British Boy 1st Class with the Royal Navy aboard the HMS Royal Oak (1939) when she was torpedoed by U-47 and sunk; he survived the sinking [38]
  • E. Smith, British Seaman with the Royal Navy aboard the HMS Royal Oak (1939) when she was torpedoed by U-47 and sunk; he survived the sinking [38]
  • ... (Another 11 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Ibrox disaster
  • George Alexander Smith (1931-1971), Scottish football supporter, from Glasgow who was at the Ibrox disaster on 2nd January 1971 when a human crush among the crowd killed 66 and injured 200 people he died of his injuries [39]
Lady of the Lake
  • Mr. Denis Smith (b. 1809), labourer who sailed aboard the "Lady of the Lake" from Greenock, Scotland on 8th April 1833 to Quebec, Canada when the ship hit ice and sunk of the coast of Newfoundland on the 11th May 1833 and he died in the sinking
  • Mr. William Smith (b. 1811), Irish labourer from Coleraine, Northern Ireland who sailed aboard the "Lady of the Lake" from Greenock, Scotland on 8th April 1833 to Quebec, Canada when the ship hit ice and sunk of the coast of Newfoundland on the 11th May 1833 and he died in the sinking
  • Mr. Isack Smith (b. 1788), Irish labourer from Newton Stewart, Scotland who sailed aboard the "Lady of the Lake" from Greenock, Scotland on 8th April 1833 to Quebec, Canada when the ship hit ice and sunk of the coast of Newfoundland on the 11th May 1833 and he died in the sinking
  • Miss Matilda Smith (b. 1826), Irish traveller from Kilrea, Northern Ireland who sailed aboard the "Lady of the Lake" from Greenock, Scotland on 8th April 1833 to Quebec, Canada when the ship hit ice and sunk of the coast of Newfoundland on the 11th May 1833 and she died in the sinking
  • Miss Eliza Smith (b. 1807), Irish traveller from Kilrea, Northern Ireland who sailed aboard the "Lady of the Lake" from Greenock, Scotland on 8th April 1833 to Quebec, Canada when the ship hit ice and sunk of the coast of Newfoundland on the 11th May 1833 and she died in the sinking
  • ... (Another 1 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Monongah Mine
  • Mr. Dominick Smith (b. 1882), Italian coal miner who was in mine 8 at the Monongah mine on 6th December 1907 when it exploded and collapsed; he died [40]
Pan Am Flight 103 (Lockerbie)
  • James Alvin Smith (1933-1988), American Passenger from New York, New York, America, who flew aboard the Pan Am Flight 103 from Frankfurt to Detroit, known as the Lockerbie bombing in 1988 and died [41]
  • Mary Edna Smith (1954-1988), American Army Sergeant from Kalamazoo, Michigan, America, who flew aboard the Pan Am Flight 103 from Frankfurt to Detroit, known as the Lockerbie bombing in 1988 and died [41]
  • Cynthia Joan Smith (1967-1988), American Student from Milton, Massachusetts, America, who flew aboard the Pan Am Flight 103 from Frankfurt to Detroit, known as the Lockerbie bombing in 1988 and died [41]
  • Ingrid Anita Smith (1957-1988), English Chiropodist from Berkshire, England, who flew aboard the Pan Am Flight 103 from Frankfurt to Detroit, known as the Lockerbie bombing in 1988 and died [41]
Prince of Wales colliery
  • Mr. Thomas Smith (b. 1848), Welsh coal miner who was working at the Prince of Wales Colliery in Abercarn, Wales on the 11th September 1878 when there was a coal mine explosion; he died [42]
  • Mr. Silas Smith (b. 1840), Welsh coal miner who was working at the Prince of Wales Colliery in Abercarn, Wales on the 11th September 1878 when there was a coal mine explosion; he died [42]
  • Mr. James Smith (b. 1864), Welsh coal miner who was working at the Prince of Wales Colliery in Abercarn, Wales on the 11th September 1878 when there was a coal mine explosion; he died [42]
RMS Lusitania
  • Mrs. Jessie Smith, American 1st Class Passenger from Braceville, Ohio, USA, who sailed aboard the RMS Lusitania (1915) and survived the sinking by escaping in life boat 13 [43]
  • Mr. William Smith, English First Waiter from Walton, Liverpool, England, who worked aboard the RMS Lusitania (1915) and survived the sinking [43]
  • Mr. William Thomas Smith, English Intermediate 2nd Engineer from Bootle, Lancashire, England, who worked aboard the RMS Lusitania (1915) and died in the sinking [43]
  • Mr. Peter Smith, English Master-at-Arms from Bootle, Lancashire, England, who worked aboard the RMS Lusitania (1915) and died in the sinking [43]
  • Mr. Oliver Barrow Smith, English Ship's Cook from Bootle, Lancashire, England, who worked aboard the RMS Lusitania (1915) and died in the sinking [43]
  • ... (Another 14 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
RMS Titanic
  • Mr. John Richard "Jago" Smith (d. 1912), aged 35, English Postal Clerk from Truro, England who worked aboard the RMS Titanic and died in the sinking [44]
  • Mr. Charles Edward Smith (d. 1912), aged 38, English Bed Room Steward from Southampton, Hampshire who worked aboard the RMS Titanic and died in the sinking and was recovered by CGS Montmagny [44]
  • Miss Katherine E. Smith, aged 42, English Stewardess from Southampton, Hampshire who worked aboard the RMS Titanic and survived the sinking by escaping in a life boat [44]
  • Mr. Ernest George Smith (d. 1912), aged 27, English Chief Electrician from Southampton, Hampshire who worked aboard the RMS Titanic and died in the sinking [44]
  • Mr. James M. Smith (d. 1912), aged 35, English Leading Fireman from Southampton, Hampshire who worked aboard the RMS Titanic and died in the sinking [44]
  • ... (Another 7 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Senghenydd colliery
  • Mr. James Smith (b. 1882), Welsh coal miner from Senghenydd, Caerphilly, Wales who was working at the Senghenydd colliery when there was an explosion on the 14th October 1913; he died
SS Atlantic
  • George Smith, who was traveling aboard the ship "SS Atlantic" when it struck rocks off Nova Scotia in 1873, survived the sinking
  • John Smith, who was traveling aboard the ship "SS Atlantic" when it struck rocks off Nova Scotia in 1873, survived the sinking
  • Ralph Smith, who was traveling aboard the ship "SS Atlantic" when it struck rocks off Nova Scotia in 1873, survived the sinking
  • Wm. Smith, who was traveling aboard the ship "SS Atlantic" when it struck rocks off Nova Scotia in 1873, survived the sinking
  • Henry Smith, who was traveling aboard the ship "SS Atlantic" when it struck rocks off Nova Scotia in 1873, died in the sinking
  • ... (Another 5 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
SS Caribou
  • Mr. Ronald Smith (b. 1923), Newfoundland passenger who was Royal Navy seaman from Norman's Cove-Long Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador was travelling aboard the railway ferry "SS Caribou" when it was struck by a German submarine torpedo on 14th October 1942, the most significant sinking in Canadian waters at that time, he died in the sinking
SS Southern Cross
  • Mr. Henry Smith (1896-1914), Newfoundlander from Long Pond who was aboard the "SS Southern Cross" when it is suspected she sank between the 31st March 1914 and early April during the storm with a heavy load of pelts; no survivors were ever found
  • Mr. George Smith (1894-1914), Newfoundlander from Spaniard's Bay who was aboard the "SS Southern Cross" when it is suspected she sank between the 31st March 1914 and early April during the storm with a heavy load of pelts; no survivors were ever found
USS Arizona
  • Mr. Harold F. Smith, American Boatswain's Mate Second Class working aboard the ship "USS Arizona" when she sunk during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on 7th December 1941, he survived the sinking [45]
  • Mr. William H. Smith Jr., American Coxswain working aboard the ship "USS Arizona" when she sunk during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on 7th December 1941, he survived the sinking [45]
  • Mr. Clyde C. Smith, American Chief Electrician's Mate working aboard the ship "USS Arizona" when she sunk during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on 7th December 1941, he survived the sinking [45]
  • Mr. Roscoe B. Smith, American Gunner's Mate Third Class working aboard the ship "USS Arizona" when she sunk during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on 7th December 1941, he survived the sinking [45]
  • Mr. Walter Tharnel Smith, American Mess Attendant Second Class from Mississippi, USA working aboard the ship "USS Arizona" when she sunk during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on 7th December 1941, he died in the sinking [45]
  • ... (Another 11 entries are available in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.)
Victoria steamboat disaster
  • Edwin Albert Smith, Canadian passenger who was killed in the Victoria steamboat disaster when the boat capsized in 1881
  • Harvey Smith, Canadian passenger who was killed in the Victoria steamboat disaster when the boat capsized in 1881
  • Mary J. Smith, Canadian passenger who was killed in the Victoria steamboat disaster when the boat capsized in 1881
  • Minnie Smith, Canadian passenger who was killed in the Victoria steamboat disaster when the boat capsized in 1881
  • Orville E. Smith, Canadian passenger who was killed in the Victoria steamboat disaster when the boat capsized in 1881


The Smith Motto +

The motto was originally a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first began to be shown with arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. Thus the oldest coats of arms generally do not include a motto. Mottoes seldom form part of the grant of arms: Under most heraldic authorities, a motto is an optional component of the coat of arms, and can be added to or changed at will; many families have chosen not to display a motto.

Motto: Benigno Numine
Motto Translation: By Divine Providence.


Suggested Readings for the name Smith +

  • Andrew M. and O.S. Smith, Sons of Maine and Nebraska Homesteaders by Claude R. Wiegers.
  • Kinfolk of Henry Smith (1846-1887).
  • Pioneer Heritage: the Smith Family by Marguerite Esther Smith.

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  2. Hutchins, Fortescue, The History of Cornwall, from the Earliest Records and Traditions to the Present Time. London: William Penaluna, 1824. Print
  3. "What are the 5,000 Most Common Last Names in the U.S.?". NameCensus.com, https://namecensus.com/last-names/
  4. "Surnames Meanings, Origins & Distribution Maps - Forebears." Forebears, https://forebears.io/surnames
  5. "The first 1,000 family names by rank, Quebec (in French only)" Institut de la statistique du Quebec, https://statistique.quebec.ca/en/document/family-names-in-quebec/tableau/the-first-1000-family-names-by-rank-quebec
  6. The order of Common Surnames in 1955 in Newfoundland retrieved on 20th October 2021 (retrieved from Family Names of the Island of Newfoundland by E.R. Seary corrected edition ISBN 0-7735-1782-0)
  7. http://www.journaldesfemmes.com/nom-de-famille/nom/
  8. "Most Common Last Names in Australia." Forebears, https://forebears.io/australia/surnames
  9. "Most Common Last Names in New Zealand." Forebears, https://forebears.io/new-zealand/surnames
  10. "UK surname ranking." UK Surname map, https://www.surnamemap.eu/unitedkingdom/surnames_ranking.php?p=10
  11. "Most Common Last Names in Netherlands." Forebears, https://forebears.io/netherlands/surnames
  12. "Most Common Last Names in South Africa." Forebears, https://forebears.io/south-africa/surnames
  13. Pilgrim Ship's of 1600's Retrieved January 6th 2023, retrieved from https://www.packrat-pro.com/ships/shiplist.htm
  14. Filby, P. William, Meyer, Mary K., Passenger and immigration lists index : a guide to published arrival records of about 500,000 passengers who came to the United States and Canada in the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries. 1982-1985 Cumulated Supplements in Four Volumes Detroit, Mich. : Gale Research Co., 1985, Print (ISBN 0-8103-1795-8)
  15. Pilgrim Ship's of 1600's. Retrieved January 6th 2023 from https://www.packrat-pro.com/ships/shiplist.htm
  16. Seary E.R., Family Names of the Island of Newfoundland, Montreal: McGill's-Queen's Universtity Press 1998 ISBN 0-7735-1782-0
  17. Convict Records of Australia. Retrieved 4th February 2021 from https://convictrecords.com.au/ships/charlotte
  18. Convict Records Voyages to Australia (Retrieved 29th September 2020). Retrieved from https://convictrecords.com.au/ships/barwell
  19. Convict Records Voyages to Australia (Retrieved 13th August 2021). Retrieved from https://convictrecords.com.au/ships/earl-cornwallis
  20. Convict Records Voyages to Australia (Retrieved 14th July 2020). Retrieved from https://convictrecords.com.au/ships/atlas
  21. Convict Records Voyages to Australia (Retrieved 8th March 2021). Retrieved from https://convictrecords.com.au/ships/competitor
  22. New Zealand Yesteryears Passenger Lists 1800 to 1900 (Retrieved 17th October 2018). Retrieved from http://www.yesteryears.co.nz/shipping/passlist.html
  23. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_West_Indies
  24. Mount Erebus, Memorial, Roll of Remembrance (Retrieved 2018, February 21st). Retrieved from http://www.erebus.co.nz/memorialandawards/rollofremembrance.aspx
  25. American War Memorials - Flight 1285. (Retrieved 2016, August 24) . Retrieved from http://www.uswarmemorials.org/html/monument_details.php?SiteID=317&MemID=550
  26. Commemoration Empress of Ireland 2014. (Retrieved 2014, June 17) . Retrieved from http://www.empress2014.ca/seclangen/listepsc1.html
  27. News paper article Fraterville Mine Disaster retrieved on 6th August 2021. (Retrieved from http://www.tn.gov/tsla/exhibits/disasters/fraterville.htm).
  28. California Digital Newspaper from 21st March 1905 (retrieved on 5th August 2021.) Retrieved from https://cdnc.ucr.edu/?a=d&d=SFC19050321.2.19&e=-------en--20--1--txt-txIN--------1
  29. Halifax Explosion Book of Remembrance | Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. (Retrieved 2014, June 23) . Retrieved from https://maritimemuseum.novascotia.ca/what-see-do/halifax-explosion/halifax-explosion-book-remembrance
  30. List Of Miners - Hillcrest Mine Disaster Data. (Retrieved 2014, June 24) . Retrieved from http://www.hillcrestminedisaster.com/data/index.php?title=List_Of_Miners
  31. Hillsborough Victims (retreived 21st March 2021). Retreived from https://metro.co.uk/2019/04/15/remembering-96-victims-hillsborough-disaster-30-years-9206566/
  32. HMAS Sydney II, Finding Sydney Foundation - Roll of Honour. (Retrieved 2014, April 24) . Retrieved from http://www.findingsydney.com/roll.asp
  33. Force Z Survivors Crew List HMS Cornwall (Retrieved 2018, February 13th) - Retrieved from https://www.forcez-survivors.org.uk/biographies/listcornwallcrew.html#A
  34. Force Z Survivors HMS Dorsetshire Crew List, (Retrieved 2018, February 13th), https://www.forcez-survivors.org.uk/biographies/listdorsetshirecrew.html
  35. H.M.S. Hood Association-Battle Cruiser Hood: Crew Information - H.M.S. Hood Rolls of Honour, Men Lost in the Sinking of H.M.S. Hood, 24th May 1941. (Retrieved 2016, July 15) . Retrieved from http://www.hmshood.com/crew/memorial/roh_24may41.htm
  36. HMS Prince of Wales Crew members. (Retrieved 2014, April 9) . Retrieved from http://www.forcez-survivors.org.uk/biographies/listprincecrew.html
  37. HMS Repulse Crew members. (Retrieved 2014, April 9) . Retrieved from http://www.forcez-survivors.org.uk/biographies/listrepulsecrew.html
  38. Ships hit by U-boats crew list HMS Royal Oak (08) - (Retrieved 2018 February, 9th) - retrieved from https://uboat.net/allies/merchants/crews/ship68.html
  39. Bradford City Football Club In memory (retrieved 22nd March 2021). Retrieved from https://www.bradfordcityafc.com/club/in-memoriam/
  40. Monongah Mining Disaster retrieved on 8th August 2021. (Retrieved fromhttps://usminedisasters.miningquiz.com/saxsewell/monongah.htm).
  41. Pan Am Flight 103's victims: A list of those killed 25 years ago | syracuse.com. (Retrieved 2014, April 9) . Retrieved from http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2013/12/pan_am_flight_103s_victims_a_list_of_those_killed_25_years_ago.html
  42. Entombed in flood and flame (retrieved 3rd August 2021). Retrieved from https://web.archive.org/web/20120603025705/http://www.crosskeys.me.uk/history/prince.htm
  43. Lusitania Passenger List - The Lusitania Resource. (Retrieved 2014, March 7) . Retrieved from http://www.rmslusitania.info/lusitania-passenger-list/
  44. Titanic Passenger List - Titanic Facts. (Retrieved 2016, July 13) . Retrieved from http://www.titanicfacts.net/titanic-passenger-list.html
  45. Pearl Harbour: USS Arizona Casualties List Pearl Harbour December 7, 1941. (Retrieved 2018, July 31st). Retrieved from http://pearl-harbor.com/arizona/casualtylist.html


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