Elisha Smith, a grandson of one of Rhode Island's co-founders, John Smith, "The Miller," built the original part of this house, a small stone-ender, in 1696.[2] The house was enlarged to a saltbox configuration c. 1713, adding chambers to the side and rear of the central chimney. Around 1750 the roof was raised on the rear section, giving the house the full 2+1⁄2-story height it has today.[3] Between then and 1830 the house underwent a number of further alterations and enlargements, including the c. 1800 attachment of a second house (hauled from Johnston) that nearly doubled its living space. The relocation of Stillwater Road in the 19th century as a consequence of the creation of Georgiaville Pond also resulted in a reconfiguration of the house, functionally reversing the front and rear.[2]
The original farm grounds contained mills and a blacksmith shop on 700 acres (280 ha).
The Smith–Appleby House Museum is open for tours during scheduled events, or tours may be arranged on request.
