The Governor Dies in the Theatre - The Death of George William Smith
George William Smith was Governor of Virginia when he was killed in the Richmond Theatre Fire.
George William Smith
George William Smith was a member of the Lee Family of Virginia through his mother’s line.
He followed his father, a member of the Continental Congress, into politics.
George became a member of the Virginia House of Delegates and quickly became recognized as a leader of the State.
Politian On The Rise
Smith rocketed up Virginia’s political world and by 1808 was placed on the Council of State.
The Council of State was essentially the Governor’s Cabinet, and George would remain there for several years.
Eventually, he became president of the Council and therefore Lieutenant Governor.
Twice Acting
George William Smith stepped in as Acting Governor of Virginia when the term of John Tyler ended.
When the new Governor, James Monroe, arrived Smith stepped down.
Just two months later, President Madison appointed Monroe US Secretary of State and he resigned as Governor.
Smith again stepped in as Acting Governor.
Governor
George had done so well in the interim that Virginia officially elected him as the 17th Governor in 1811.
Sadly, on December 26th of that year, Smith was one of the 72 people killed in the Richmond Theatre Fire. Although accounts differ, it is said that George made it out of the blaze, but ran back in to save his son.
The death of Governor Smith sent Virginia into disarray.
The nation was on the precipice of the War of 1812 and the State was deeply divided on the issue.
The Legislature quickly met and appointed Jame Barbour as Governor, who helped Virginia rebound from the disaster before successfully acting as its wartime leader.
Do you want to learn about another tragic fire during America’s Founding?
Check out this article:
The 1776 Burning of New York City
The Richmond Theatre Fire was a major disaster during the American Founding.
For a full account of this tragic tale, check out ‘Early America’s First Great Disaster.’
Pick up a copy through the Amazon affiliate link below (you’ll support this site, but don’t worry, Amazon pays me while your price stays the same).
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