Alexander Smets
Alexander Augustus Smets | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Nantes, France |
| Died | May 9, 1862 (aged 66) Indian Springs, Georgia, United States |
| Occupation(s) | Banker, philanthropist, landowner |
| Known for | Co-founder of the Georgia Historical Society |
Alexander Augustus Smets (October 12, 1795 – May 9, 1862) was a French-born individual who played a pivotal role in establishing the Georgia Historical Society in Savannah, Georgia, United States. As a banker, philanthropist, and prominent landowner, he ranked among the wealthiest figures in Georgia.
Life and career
Smets was born in Nantes, France, to Barthelemy Martin Smets from Belgium and Jean Marie Antoinette. At eighteen, he joined the French Army and rose to the rank of lieutenant before the conclusion of the war. Encouraged by his friend Charles Maurel, a merchant based in Savannah, he relocated to the United States in 1816.
Following an initial business partnership that ended quickly, Smets ventured into the lumber industry on his own and prospered financially, retiring in 1849 with substantial assets. In 1820, he married Anne Watt; together they had nine children.
In 1839, Smets helped found the Georgia Historical Society and formed a strong bond with Israel Keech Tefft. From the mid-1840s through the mid-1850s, he developed the Alexander Smets Range on West Broughton Street and resided at the Alexander A. Smets House on East Jones Street (constructed in 1853), which currently serves as Morris Hall for the Savannah College of Art and Design. His property portfolio included a plantation located on Hutchinson Island by the Savannah River. Additionally, he owned slaves.
In 1859, Smets became a member of the New England Historic Genealogical Society. He curated an extensive private library recognized as one of the most valuable collections accessible to the American public.
Death
Smets passed away at age 66 on May 9, 1862, in Indian Springs, Georgia, following a short illness. His initial burial took place on May 11 at Savannah's Laurel Grove Cemetery. Later, on March 6, 1919, his remains along with those of his family were transferred to Bonaventure Cemetery, where he rests beside his wife who had died eight years prior.