He first became a mathematical instrument maker, then did research into the mechanics of waterwheels and windmills.
Smeaton designed the third Eddystone Lighthouse which remained in use until 1877 when it was rebuilt at Plymouth Hoe. He also improved Thomas Newcomen's atmospheric steam engine, and he built Ramsgate[?] harbour, the Forth and Clyde Canal and the bridges at Coldstream[?] and Perth.
He is buried in the parish church at Whitkirk, West Yorkshire.
wikipedia.org dumped 2003-03-17 with terodump