Smith was born in Ashby Road, Ticknall, Derbyshire, in February 1814.[1] After working as a cordwainer like his father and uncle,[2] Smith enlisted with the private army of the East India Company in London on 3 October 1837.[3] Following his training at the East India Company's depot in Chatham, Smith embarked for India.[2] Arriving on 2 August 1839 Smith was posted to the Bengal Sappers and Miners, subsequently arriving at the headquarters in Delhi[3] then joining the 3rd Company of the Bengal Sappers and Miners.[2] Smith was promoted to Sergeant in 1840.[3]