From NKAA, Notable Kentucky African Americans Database (main entry)

Kirke Smith, born in Christiansburg, Virginia, graduated from Berea College (KY) in 1890. From 1895-1910, he was an activist and superintendent of the Colored Schools of Lebanon, KY. Between 1910 and 1912, he was also one of the main financial solicitors for Lincoln Institute, known as "New Berea." Smith was Dean of Men and the Dean of the Normal Department of Lincoln Institute from 1912-1933. Kirke Smith was a promoter of higher education for African Americans in Kentucky. He was the husband of Sallie J. Smith.

Kirke Smith died in Anchorage, KY, and is buried in the Berrytown Cemetery in Louisville, KY. 

Information for this entry was submitted by Eric Smith (CA) with reference to The Kirk Smith Papers at Berea College and the Lincoln Institute File at the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives.