On his father's death in 1891 he became head of the family firm of W.H. Smith and Son and also took over as MP for the Strand Division, until 1910. Chairman of King's College Hospital. Became 2nd Viscount Hambleden in 1913 on his mother's death. There never was a 1st Viscount - his mother was created Viscountess in honour of her deceased husband. These toffs, eh, just change the rules to suit themselves. Next thing, they'll be allowing a first-born princess to be first-in-line, if we don't watch out.
This section lists the memorials where the subject on this page is commemorated:
W. F. D. Smith, Lord Hambleden
Commemorated ati
W. H. Smiths - WC2
{On the plinth:} William Frederick Danvers Smith, 2nd Viscount Hambleden, bo...
This section lists the memorials created by the subject on this page:
W. F. D. Smith, Lord Hambleden
Creations i
St Clement Danes Parish House
The St Clement Danes Church referred to is the one in the middle of the Stran...
Other Subjects
The Bell, Carter Lane
From this inn, on 25 October 1598, Richard Quiney wrote a letter to William Shakespeare. This letter, the only one addressed to Shakespeare that has survived, is held by the museum at Strafford. Th...
Hackney Gazette printing works
From British History Online we learn: The 'Hackney and Kingsland Gazette' was launched in 1864. The sons of the printer, Charles Potter, formed Potter Bros Ltd in 1920 and changed the title to 'Ha...
May Fair Hotel
A luxury hotel, built on the site of the grounds of Devonshire House. opened in 1927 with King George V and Queen Mary in attendance.