Milton and Helen Smith owned Economy Furniture Incorporated, a furniture manufacturing business in Austin, Texas. Milton’s father and brother started the business in 1930. Milton later became president of the company. Helen managed the plant for three years when Milton was away during World War II. She later held various titles with the company, including personnel manager and vice-president.
Milton and Helen were extremely involved in the Jewish community, including Temple Beth Israel in Austin, and in B’nai B’rith organizations on the district, national, and international levels. They received the Humanitarian Award from B’nai B’rith in 1969. Helen served as president of B’nai B’rith Women International in 1975. Milton was president of B’nai B’rith on the international and district levels in other years.
The Smiths were also active in many other civic and philanthropic endeavors in Austin. Although neither of them graduated from The University of Texas, they gave generously to the school’s academic and athletic programs. Through their Moshana Foundation, they funded scholarships and the purchase of the Literaria Judaica collection at the Humanities Research Center. They were enthusiastic fans of University athletics; Helen corresponded often with the coaches.
From the guide to the Milton and Helen Smith Papers 2003-170., 1878-2002 (bulk, 1950s-1970s), (Dolph Briscoe Center for American History, The University of Texas at Austin)
