E. Raymond Smith papers, 1950-1970

Summary

Creator:
Smith, Emmett Raymond, 1922-2013
Date:
1950-1970
Extent:
0.5 Linear Feet (1 half full box and 1 oversized folder)
Language:
English
Preferred citation:

E. Raymond Smith papers, ms4126, Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library, The University of Georgia Libraries.

Background

Scope and content:

Consists of materials mostly from the 1950s-1970s pertaining to the life of E. Raymond Smith, businessman from Macon, Georgia. The "E. Raymond Smith scrapbook" includes photographs, newspapers clippings, and other documents chronicling his business career. This scrapbook also notably includes a letter from Mrs. Clifford H. Hicks, critcizing Smith's dealership employees for continuing to "use the old style policy" of referring to black customers by "given name." The "James Brown scrapbook" chronicles his friendship and business partnership with musician, James Brown, including letters, checks, and signed photographs of the two men together.

Biographical / historical:

Emmett Raymond Smith was born in Roberta, Georgia and served in the marines in the Pacific Theater during WWII, receiving a Purple Heart after being injured during a land mine explosion. He was a well-known businessman, owning multiple car dealerships and investing in real estate throughout Georgia. Smith served as President and Chairman of Gold Platter Services, Inc. of Macon, Georgia in 1971, where he met musician, James Brown. Together they created the franchise, "James Brown's Gold Platter Restaurants." E. Raymond Smith passed away on August 24, 2013.

Access and use restrictions

Preferred citation:

E. Raymond Smith papers, ms4126, Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library, The University of Georgia Libraries.