A History of Masonry in Madison County, Kentucky 1812-1913, compiled 
and written by Robert R. Burnam, 1914, p.  91.

JOHN SPEED SMITH, JR., probably the most distinguished Mason who ever 
presided over Richmond Lodge No. 25 was born at the country home of his 
parents, "Castle Union," in Madison County, August 23, 1845.  He was 
descended on both sides from the best stock furnished Kentucky from the 
older States.  His father, after whom he was named, had served both as 
Master of his Lodge and as Grand Master of the State.  His career is full 
given in one of the earlier sketches of this volume.  His mother was the 
daughter of General Green Clay, whose name is familiar to all students of 
Kentucky history.  Educated in the schools of his County and at Transylvania 
University with youths like unto himself he was always one of the most 
attractive of men.  In his early life he followed agricultural pursuits.  He 
inherited the home of his parents, "Castle Union," and here with his wife, 
who was Miss Mary Barrett, the old-fashioned welcome greeted all who eagle. 
The memory of such homes will ever live in the recollection of those who 
were fortunate enough to have enjoyed their hospitality.  Later Captain 
Smith (acquiring his title by reason of his service in the State militia) 
removed to Richmond for the purpose of educating his children.  He was for a 
while associated with the Madison National Bank, afterwards he was in the 
service of both his Country and State.  He was representative from his 
County in the Kentucky Legislature, serving with credit to himself and his 
people.  He was also clerk of that body during the trying session when the 
famous Hunter-Blackburn contest was on.  His public life, however, was not 
that which endears his memory to his friends and the craft, but his 
attractive personality and the work accomplished for the craft by him.  His 
Masonic record taken from the hack of an apron worn by him is as follows: 
Made a Master Mason in Richmond Lodge No. 25 September 10, 1866; made a 
Royal Arch Mason in Richmond Chapter No. 16 May 10, 1867; created a Templar 
in Richmond Commandery No. 19 June 18, 1881; elected Master of Richmond 
Lodge No. 25 December, 1886; elected High Priest of Richmond Chapter No. 16 
September 20, 1887; elected Eminent Commander of Richmond Commandery April 
17, 1892; elected Grand Master of Kentucky Free and Accepted Masons October 
17, 1892; elected Grand High Priest of Grand Chapter October 17, 1899; 
elected Grand Prelate of Grand Commandery of Kentucky May 18, 1899; made 
Grand Lodge Agent of "The Centennial Fund" October 18, 1894; made a Noble of 
Kosair Temple, A. A. O. M. S., November 26, 1893; elected president of the 
"Masonic Veterans of Kentucky" October 17, 1898.  This is the story in brief 
of his Masonic career.  He was for years one of the most prominent and 
influential members of the various Grand Bodies.  His counsel was ever wise 
and conservative.  More to hills than to all others is due the beautiful 
Temple, where from week to week; the various branches of the Order meet in 
our city.  But the charity on which his fame rests is "The Old Masons' 
Home," located at Shelbyville.  He it was who introduced the resolution 
establishing it, and although in failing health he traveled over the State 
securing pledges amounting to $50,000 for the purchasing of grounds and the 
erection of suitable buildings.  Today its sheltering walls protect many 
aged and infirm who love almost finished life's journey.  When they shall 
have crossed the river, others will take their places.  Both the Grand 
Chapter and Grand Lodge of Kentucky have provided for the care of the 
inmates of this home by a per capita assessment on the craft.  Unfortunately 
Captain Smith did not live to see this monument to his work and worth 
completed, but like Hiram of old, died leaving his design to other hands to 
finish.
     "Death takes us by surprise 
     And stays our hurrying feet; 
     The great design unfinished dies, 
     Our lives are incomplete. 
     But in the dark unknown 
     Perfect their circles seem.
     Even as a bridge's arch of stone 
     Is rounded in the streams."

     He was once truly characterized "the St. John" of Richmond Commandery 
because he was the most beloved of all.  He died February 1, 1900, in his 
fifty-fifth year and was buried with Templar honors, the officers of the 
Grand Commandery officiating.  His grave is marked by a plain granite rock, 
and those who knew him will soon have passed away, but the influence of his 
example and the work performed by him for the craft will surely endure for 
generations.

Smith Clay Barrett Hunter Blackburn
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