William Smith (c. 1799-1872)
William Smith (c. 1799-1872) was born in Glasgow. He was briefly a student at the United College, St Andrews (c.1822) and around the same time, became a druggist and chemist on South Street, St Andrews. He was active in civic affairs, as a member of St Andrews Town Council, chairman of the St Andrews Gas Co., and chairman of St Andrews Railway Co. Smith was closely involved with the circle of early photographers and Literary & Philosophical Society members. In religion, he was a committed Congregationalist, and was involved in the local branch of the London Missionary Society. In 1861, he founded the Smith Bursary to support a student’s study, first at St Andrews, and then at the (Congregational) Theological Hall in Edinburgh.
Sources: UYUY602/3; Biographical Register – William Smith; University Calendar, 1896; Fife Herald, 4 July 1861