Digital Scholarship and Initiatives

James (Jim) Edward Smiling was referred to as “the patriarch of the Privateer Redbones.” In 1838, he became a carpenter, an occupation he practiced for some time. He also was a Baptist minister.

Smiling and his wife, 77 years old and 71 years old, respectively, had over 50 descendants, including children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He owned over 200 acres of land and lived in the same house for over 52 years.

In 1868, Smiling was elected a member of the legislature. He was also a magistrate under Governor Scott, and he served, at times, as a trial justice.