James McConnel Smith

"...was the son of Col. Daniel Smith, and was the first white child born west of the Blue Ridge in the limits of North Carolina.  Mr. Smith was a man of untiring industry, economy and perseverance.  He married Polly, daughter of Col. John Patton, settled at Asheville at an early day, and commenced merchandising and farming, both of which he prosecuted successfully till his death in 1856.  He heeded not the fashions of the world, but steadily pursued his calling, and at his death left a large fortune for his children.  Mrs. Smith died in 1843, respected and lamented.  She was the mother of nine children, five of whom are still living...." (1858. Bennett, D. K. Chronology of North Carolina, pp. 101, 102.)