Helen Hay Smith
New Zealand clothing manufacturer and retailer, businesswoman
About Helen Hay Smith
Lived 1873 – 1918 (aged 44–45). Helen Hay Smith was a New Zealand fashion designer, retail worker and businessperson.
Helen Hay Smith (29 August 1873 – 17 November 1918) was a notable New Zealand clothing manufacturer, retailer and businesswoman. She was born in McMaster's Flat, Central Otago, New Zealand, in 1873. She and her brother John co-founded the H & J Smith department store franchise.
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Important facts
People in Helen Hay Smith's life
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Frequently asked questions
Who was Helen Hay Smith?
New Zealand clothing manufacturer and retailer, businesswoman (1873–1918)
When was Helen Hay Smith born?
Helen Hay Smith was born in 1873.
When did Helen Hay Smith die?
Helen Hay Smith died in 1918.
What was Helen Hay Smith's occupation?
Helen Hay Smith was a fashion designer, retail worker and businessperson.
What nationality was Helen Hay Smith?
Helen Hay Smith was New Zealand.
Sources & further reading
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Helen Hay Smith. https://biography.guide/helen-hay-smith/
MLA: "Helen Hay Smith." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/helen-hay-smith/.
Chicago: "Helen Hay Smith." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/helen-hay-smith/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-22 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
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