Mr. Smith received his educational training in the Clarkstown district schools and early displayed those business attainments which have since marked his life. He first engaged in the grocery trade at Closter, N. J., and subsequently in the livery business at Nyack, N. Y. On the 1st of April, 1875, he removed to Bayonne. Hudson County, and established himself in business as a butcher, in which he was very successful. For a number of years he has been engaged in the liquor business in Bayonne.

In politics Mr. Smith is a consistent Democrat, active in public affairs, and prominent in campaign work. For three terms he was one of the School Trustees of Bayonne, and in that capacity rendered efficient service to the city and to the cause of local education. He is the founder and President of the Edward Smith Association, one of the leading political organizations in Hudson County. He is also Vice-President of the Liquor Dealers' Association, of Bayonne, a member of the Exempt Firemen's Association, and a member of Bayonne Lodge, No. 99, F. and A. M., and of Bayonne Council, No. 695. Royal Arcanum. His religious affiliations are with the Dutch Reformed Church.