HORACE A. SMEAD – The name of Smead is one of more than passing importance in the western part of Massachusetts, and indeed in this general part of the State it has long been prominent. Mr. Smead has been active in farming interests throughout his entire lifetime and now in the sunset of life he is enjoying well earned leisure.
Jonathan Smead, great-great-grandfather of Mr. Smead, was born in 1735 and was a pioneer of Greenfield, locating in that community when the Indians were still frequent visitors to the white settlements. He was active in agricultural pursuits in the vicinity of Greenfield until his death, which occurred in 1814.
Jonathan (2) Smead, son of Jonathan Smead, was born in 1773 and reared on the home farm, where he spent his lifetime; he passed away August 25, 1850. He was considered one of the important farmers in this section, owning a three hundred acre farm of rich fertile soil, of which he tilled a very considerable portion. Both he and his wife were members of the Congregational church and were universally esteemed in the community.
Jonathan (3) Smead, son of Jonathan (2) Smead, was born on the home farm April 8, 1812, and in 1838 built the present house. He married and settled on the home farm, remaining with his father, and in 1846 the homestead was divided between he and his brother, Charles Lewis Smead; Jonathan receiving the west portion of the farm and Charles Lewis the east. Jonathan Smead died January 21, 1866, at the age of fifty-three years. His wife, Lucy B. (Adams) Smead, was born February 28, 1813, at West Haven, Rutland County, Vermont, and was a great-granddaughter of Rev. Edward Billings, the first clergyman of Greenfield. She lived to be seventy-eight years of age, passing away December 1, 1881. They were the parents of five children: Charles L.; Jonathan H.; Horace A., of whom further; Sarah P.; and Edwin B.
Horace A. Smead, son of Jonathan (3) Smead, was born in the Smead family homestead, February 6, 1812. Receiving his education in the local schools, he has been active throughout his lifetime in farming interests, only a few years ago turning over the principal endeavors of the place to his sons. A man of sincere spirit and purpose, his activities have always been useful and he has home a worthy part in the local progress.