J. W. Smith

As printed in 1915

J. W. SMITH, M. D.

Burlington has every reason to be proud of the medical profession as represented here, for on the whole its members are a class of men who recognize the obligations which devolve upon them and, holding to high professional ideals, are rendering valuable service to their fellows. Such is the record of Dr. Smith, who has now practiced in this city for about twelve years. He is a native of the neighboring state of Missouri, his birth having occurred in Memphis, August 26, 1869, his parents being James and Sarah A. (Smith) Smith. The father was a farmer by occupation and thus provided for his family.

Dr. Smith had the usual experiences of the lad who is reared in the middle west and depends upon the public schools for his educational training. After leaving the high school he entered the Barnes Medical College of St. Louis, in which he pursued the full course until graduated on the 9th of April, 1903, on which occasion his professional degree was conferred upon him. He immediately afterward came to Burlington, where he has since remained in general practice. The steps in his orderly progression are easily discernible.

He did not consider his education completed when he left college but has continued to read broadly and think deeply and has kept abreast with the onward march of the profession in every way.

On the 31st of December, 1895, Dr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Lydia M. Wedertz, of Burlington, a daughter of Charles and Mary Wedertz. Her father was one of the pioneer settlers and early merchants of Burlington and was a very popular and prominent man, especially influential among the German-American citizens, and in various ways he left the impress of his individuality for good upon the upbuilding of this section.

Dr. Smith is a republican but with independent tendencies. He is well known in Masonic circles, holding membership in the lodge and chapter, and he also belongs to the Woodmen of the World, the Modern Woodmen of America, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, the Degree of Honor, the Court of Honor, the Woodmen Circle, the Loyal Order of Moose and the Mystic Workers. He is likewise a member of the Burlington Automobile Club, a fact which indicates something of the nature of his recreation. Geniality and cordiality have gained him popularity and Dr. Smith is now widely and favorably known in his adopted city.

As printed in History of Des Moines County, Iowa (1915). See the original pages. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.