[2] His father was a pioneer railroad builder in Vermont, and a leading lawyer and political figure.

[3] J. Gregory Smith graduated from the University of Vermont in 1838, where he was a founding member of the Lambda Iota Society, and attended Yale Law School.

[6] After the death of her father, J. Gregory Smith named Brainerd, Minnesota in honor of his wife's family.

He is considered the founder as he selected this site as president of the Northern Pacific Railroad for a crossing of the upper Mississippi River, thus stimulating the town's growth.

[11] After his father's death in 1858, he succeeded to the position of trustee under the lease of the Vermont and Canada Railroad.

[17] Following his governorship Smith returned to his business interests, including serving as president of the Northern Pacific Railroad from 1866 to 1872.