By D.G. Martin
The National Park Serviceâs recent announcement that a woman would be the new superintendent of the Blue Ridge Parkway is a reminder of the important role Josephus Daniels played in the Parkwayâs location.
Only a few older folks remember that North Carolina would have lost much of the Parkway to Tennessee if Josephus Daniels had not gone to bat in 1934.
We should recognize that although Daniels held and exploited the racist views of his times, his foresight and advocacy are still improving the lives of North Carolinians of all races.
Earlier in April, National Park Service Regional Director Stan Austin announced the selection of Tracy Swartout to be superintendent of the Blue Ridge Parkway, effective May 23.