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'Smith' is a surname which is extremely difficult to work on when trying to build a family tree. Alcester has had celebrated Smiths in the past, especially the l9th century medical family. From the l9th to the 20th centuries several 'Smiths' have served Alcester well but we had thought that they were separate families. Mrs. Alice Godfrey has kindly supplied information which puts right this misconception. Wilfrid H. Smith, whose shop on the High Street in Alcester many will remember, is in the town's hall of fame as one of a distinguished line of local photographers; many of our old photographs are by him.
Edgar Smith and Cyril Smith, Wilfrid's brothers, were part of Alcester life in their building and undertakers' trade: this came down from grandfather Edwin, who started the business in Butter Street.
Leonard Smith was another brother, whose partnership with a Mr. Wyatt produced many of the memorial stones seen in our local cemeteries. (The stonemasons' names may be found at the base of the gravestones.)
Here is one Smith family whose endeavours are truly part and parcel of the fabric of our local life.