Z. F. (Zachariah Frederick) Smith

author

Z. F. (Zachariah Frederick) Smith

1827–1911

A Kentucky historian, educator, and public official best remembered for his wide-ranging History of Kentucky, he spent decades writing about the state's early settlements, politics, religion, and public life. His work helped preserve stories of Kentucky's past for later generations.

1 Audiobook

The Battle of New Orleans including the Previous Engagements between the Americans and the British, the Indians and the Spanish which led to the Final Conflict on the 8th of January, 1815

The Battle of New Orleans including the Previous Engagements between the Americans and the British, the Indians and the Spanish which led to the Final Conflict on the 8th of January, 1815

by Z. F. (Zachariah Frederick) Smith

About the author

Born in Henry County, Kentucky, in 1827, Zachariah Frederick Smith built a varied career as a farmer, teacher, lawyer, and writer before becoming known as a historian. He was active in education and public affairs, and sources connected with his life describe him as having served as president of Henry College during the Civil War era and later as Kentucky's superintendent of public instruction.

Smith is best known for The History of Kentucky, first published in the 1890s, a large and ambitious account of the state's beginnings, pioneer years, political development, military history, and notable figures. He also wrote on religious and historical subjects, including work related to Barton W. Stone and the Battle of New Orleans, and he was associated with Kentucky historical circles including the Filson Club.

He died in Louisville in July 1911. For listeners interested in older regional history, Smith's writing offers a window into how Kentuckians of his own time understood the state's past and the people who shaped it.