Wade L. Smith came to Grapeland in 1909 as principal and superintendent of the Grapeland School. He served in this capacity until 1913. He later owned and operated The People’s Drug Store for several years. He was in the grocery business until his retirement. He was loved by all school children because of the large selection of nickel and penny candy in his store and his great patience in helping them with their selections. Wade L. Smith served as president of the school board for 12 years and as a member of the board for 12 more years. In all, he gave 28 years of service to our school. He also served for 50 years as a Sunday School Teacher in the Methodist Church. Wade L. Smith married Annabelle Davis, daughter of Judge John A. Davis and had three children: Jean Marie (Mrs. Will Ike Kennedy), Wade L., Jr. and Joyce (Mrs. Jarvis Pinchback).