Confederate Veteran
Death notice of Edwin R. Smith

1908 Col. Edwin R. Smith. Col. E.R. Smith was born in Washington County, Va., November 14, 1828; and died October 8, 1908. When he was twelve years of age, his father, Thomas Jefferson Smith, moved to Russell County, where the remainder of his life was spent. In 1861, when the drum beat the Southrons to arms, he was among the first to respond to the call. He raised a company of infantry at Lebanon, Va., his company becoming a part of the 29th Virginia Regiment. He was captain until sometime in 1863, when he was promoted to the rank of colonel. His regiment was in General Pickett's division, and he participated in many of the bloody battles of the Army of Northern Virginia. He bore himself in the fiery ordeals with firmness and courage to his honor. Colonel Smith was considered the finest drillmaster in the division. He was once wounded, shot through the right hand at Drewry's Bluff. Colonel Smith was the eldest of seven brothers, all of whom were in the Confederate army. He was a man of extensive learning, and posessed a wonderful memory. Although he had been paralyzed for several years, his mind was clear and bright until the last. In spite of affliction, he was always patient and cheerful. He made his home with his daughter, Mrs. B.F. Ball, Richlands, Va. He was a member of the Methodist Church. After a long and useful life, he has crossed "over the river" to join his comrades.