James I Smith attended Anderson's University, Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland during the 1876-1877 session before going on to a career as a chemist. Whilst attending the University he attended the chemistry lectures of Dr Edmund James Mills (1840-1921), Professor of Technical Chemistry at Anderson's University. In 1877, Anderson's University became Anderson's College, a predecessor institution of the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow.
Dr Edmund James Mills was appointed to the Young Chair of Technical Chemistry, Glasgow connected to Anderson's University in 1875 . He was an energetic man with broad experience and a prolific researcher. His lectures were held early in the morning and attracted the attention of young men of business.
John Butt, John Anderson's Legacy: The University of Strathclyde and its Antecedents 1769-1996 ( East Linton , 1996 )
From the guide to the Papers of James I Smith, fl.1876-1886, chemistry students of Anderson's University, Glasgow, Scotland, 1876-1886, (Glasgow University Library, Special Collections Department)
