This mirror originally belonged to Cyrus Porter Smith (1800–1877), Brooklyn’s first elected mayor.
Smith, an American politician born on a farm in Hanover, New Hampshire, graduated from Dartmouth College. He moved to Brooklyn in 1827, quickly becoming active in local politics and community affairs. He served as Brooklyn’s mayor from 1839 to 1842, following roles as a clerk and Corporation Counsel for Brooklyn. Smith was instrumental in founding Green-Wood Cemetery and Brooklyn City Hospital and later served in the state senate. Beyond politics, he co-founded Smith & Buckley, a significant ferry and railroad venture.
Notably, Smith’s granddaughter, Pamela Colman Smith, gained acclaim as an artist and illustrator in the early 20th century.
