Smith derrick dedication set

A Kilgore derrick honoring Mickey Smith will be dedicated Saturday, Oct. 1 at 11 a.m. as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebration of the discovery of the East Texas Oil Field.

Located at north Hwy. 135 and Peavine Road in Kilgore, the restored derrick will be presented to the Kilgore Historical Preservation Foundation (KHPF) as part of their historical recreation of the Kilgore skyline.

The derrick was sponsored by Mickey Smith’s siblings and late parents, the Marvin A. Smith Family, to honor him for his public service to East Texas.

On behalf of the Smith Family, Denny Smith will officially present the derrick to KHPF president Tom Brown.

Mickey Smith is a Kilgore native who served as mayor for six years from 1981 to 1987. He was elected Gregg County judge in 1995 and held office until 2002.

Main Street Kilgore and KHPF were organized during his tenure as mayor. KHPF grew out of MainStreet’s efforts to revitalize downtown and preserve Kilgore’s unique heritage. Smith’s vision and its18-year legacy will be related by former Main Street Kilgore director Amanda Nobles and KHPF founding president Ronnie Spradlin.

Local, state and national dignitaries will be present to honor Judge Smith.

Kilgore Mayor Joe Parker and Gregg County Judge Bill Stroudt will welcome guests. Gregg County Commissioner Bob Barbee, a lifelong friend who followed Smith as mayor of Kilgore, will reflect on Mickey Smith’s career and

contributions.

Texas Comptroller Carol Keeton Strayhorn and U. S. Congressman Ralph Hall will also participate in the program.

James Holder will provide music during the ceremony including a vocal presentation of “God Bless America.” Charles Woolridge will sing his original composition, “Black Gold,” which dramatizes the discovery of oil in East Texas.

Dr. James B. Thompson along with Reverends Don Beebe and Robert Besser will give prayers and blessings. Gabrielle, Jacqueline and Elexis Wiebe will lead the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

The Smith derrick will join the forest of restored derricks which have been re-erected because of Smith‚s foresight. Only one original derrick, preserved by the Kilgore Improvement and Beautification Association, stood

downtown in 1981. Now, over 60 through the Kilgore environs symbolize the city’s place as the drilling and exploration hub of the East Texas Oilfield.

For other Diamond Jubilee events check their website, http://www.kilgore.edu/jubilee_events.asp