William Robert Smith

Who was William Robert Smith?

William Robert Smith was a United States representative from Texas and a United States federal judge.

Born in Smith County, Texas, Smith graduated from the Sam Houston Normal Institute in Huntsville, Texas in 1883. He read law in 1885 and was admitted to the Texas bar, beginning the practice of law in Tyler, Texas. He moved to Colorado, Texas in 1888, where he continued to practice law. In 1897, he became a judge of the 32nd Judicial District of Texas. In 1903, he resigned as judge to become a United States representative for Texas and served from March 4, 1903 to March 4, 1917.

In 1916, Smith was defeated for renomination to his seat. He moved to El Paso, Texas in October and resumed the practice of law. This practice was cut short when, on April 11, 1917, President Woodrow Wilson nominated Smith to a newly created seat in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas. Smith was confirmed by the United States Senate, and received his commission, on April 12, 1917. He served until his death in El Paso.