Col. Gaines C. Smith, one of the most highly esteemed citizens this county ever had, died at his residence in Athens last Friday afternoon, after a long and tedious illness. Col. Smith was a most remarkable man in many particulars. He was nearly ninety years of age, had served his country in three distinct wars. He went out as a youth and fought the Indians in the early Indian war. When the war with Mexico broke out he went to the defense of his country and served through that war coming out a Captain. He then laid down his arms and sought the comforts of a home life rather than follow the life of a soldier. When the great division arose which divided the north and south, he was early in the action offering his services to his native country and went forth from Limestone a first lieutenant in a company of Limestone boys and it was not long until his ability and courage brought him to the attention of the men higher up and he was rapidly advanced until at the close of the war he came out a Colonel. It was said of him by those who knew his record best that in all the southern ranks there was no braver or more determined leader of men. He was always in front. He led while his men admiring his supreme courage followed blindly. He returned to Limestone after the close of the hostilities in 1865 and settled down to his former pursuit and since then has resided in our county, admired and respected by all who knew him. A few years ago he came to Athens to spend the few remaining days allowed to him. He was very feeble for many months before the end and only those who visited him at his home saw the old veteran of three wars. He was a modest man and unless you knew of his valor and his war record, you would never get any of it from him. His remains were laid to rest Saturday in the city cemetery. No braver or nobler body was ever laid to rest under the southern skies than that of Col. Gaines C. Smith. From the Alabama Courier May 4, 1910.

A pension application for the Mexican War lists his first wife as Matilda Jane Capps, married 15 November 1845. She died 7 November 1867. Research by others show Gaines family living near a family named Chisholm and it is thought that may be the source of his middle name.

RESEARCH BY MICHAEL BURK-FERRELL SHOW MILITARY AND CENSUS RECORDS WITH HIS DATE OF BIRTH 26 FEBRUARY1827.

To view a biography by Gloria Barnett, google Gaines C. Smith and look for photo. PARENTAL LINKS PROVIDED BY MICHAEL BURK.