Law School in the years before it became a degree-granting institution. After becoming a lawyer in 1948, Smith established a law office in Kingston and practised for 50 years. Real estate career Early in his legal career, Smith began to dabble as a “hobby” in residential development and rentals. It is in this field that he became especially well known. In 1954, Smith founded Homestead Land Holdings Limited, a land development, construction and residential rentals company. Smith built Homestead into one of the largest residential rental companies in all of Canada, ultimately owning and marketing over 27,000 rental units in 16 cities across eastern, central and western Ontario and in Calgary, Alberta. Historical writing Smith has produced two books and a journal article, all on historical subjects. Community service and philanthropy Smith has a recognized record of community service and philanthropy. The award of the Order of Ontario (2018) to Smith was in recognition of his community service, including his philanthropy. Similarly, community service and philanthropy figured prominently in Smith's being made a Member of the Order of Canada in 2019. The citation for this award reads: "Throughout his lifetime, Britton Smith has demonstrated exemplary qualities of leadership and vision. A native of Kingston, Ontario, he practiced law before developing one of the most successful rental organizations in the country. Esteemed for his philanthropy, he has helped grow his community through generous donations from his eponymous foundation, benefiting the social, economic and cultural fabric of the city. A decorated Second World War soldier and recipient of the Military Cross, he is also a passionate local historian and has written extensively on HMS Ontario, a military brig lost in 1780." Community service Smith held a number of community appointments alongside his work. The following is at least a partial list of Smith's volunteer and community service: Honorary Colonel, |The Princess of Wales’ Own Regiment, 1974–85 and 1992–95 President of The Royal Military College Club of Canada, 1983–84 Executive member of The Royal Military College Club of Canada, 1957–83 Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel, |The Princess of Wales' Own Regiment, 1968–74 Chairman of |Kingston's United Way charitable fundraising campaign, 1967 Alderman (i.e. elected councillor) on Kingston City Council, serving for three terms, 1949–55 Philanthropy Smith, personally as well as through his charitable foundation (the Britton Smith Foundation) and his closely-held corporation (Homestead Land Holdings Limited), has donated money to numerous charities and community projects. A