At the outbreak of the Civil War he raised the 8th Missouri Volunteer Infantry, of which he was elected Colonel in 1861.

This was a testimony to Smith's leadership, considering other commands lost thousands to skulkers and prisoners during both battles.

In mid-May Smith was transferred to command the 1st Brigade in William T. Sherman's division.

[1] His daughter Louise Morgan Sill (1867–1961) was a poet, editor, and translator based in Paris.

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