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Oak Ridge names DeRay Smith city historian, community leaders praise his work
Summary
Council unanimously approved a resolution naming DeRay Smith Oak Ridge city historian. Residents and former officials praised Smith's local history work, podcasting, newspaper columns and role with Tennessee historical entities.
Oak Ridge City Council on March 10 unanimously approved a resolution designating historian DeRay Smith as the city's official historian, a role council said will promote and publicize Oak Ridge's history.
The resolution names DeRay Smith to the position and charges him with promoting the city's history. Supporters spoke at the podium before the vote. "I don't believe there's any one person that has contributed more to the history of this town than DeRay Smith," said Gordon Fee, a longtime local historian, citing Smith's podcast, newspaper columns and outreach work. Fee noted that Smith's work has raised Oak Ridge's profile within the Manhattan Project National Historical Park community.
David Bradshaw, a former mayor who also addressed council, said Smith has become the go-to person for questions about Oak Ridge history and praised his public-facing work as a tour guide and writer.
Smith spoke briefly after the vote. "I am honored by your recognition and I'm humbled," he said, and acknowledged predecessors and collaborators including Bill Wilcox and Keith McDaniel, and described the work of promoting Oak Ridge's history at state and national levels.
Council members also emphasized the value of Smith's work for the city's ability to attract grants and partnerships. Councilman Allen said the "brand" Smith has helped build has had tangible value in leveraging grants and support for local projects.
The resolution passed by voice vote; council recorded the motion as approved 4-0 on the record.
