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For years, local historian Clyde Parker has worked to document the history of Western Tidewater and preserve our greatest local treasures. Turns out he is one of them.

You might say we’re biased; Parker has lent his talents for years to The Tidewater News. But even objectively, it’s clear how important this community is to Clyde, and even more so how important he is to the community he loves. In Wednesday’s edition, it was reported that after three years of his efforts, the Charles Street Gym in Franklin was named in December to the Virginia Landmark Register.

Clyde has a long history of service to his community. Professionally, he spent many years in the employ of Franklin Equipment Company. Personally, he has dedicated countless hours volunteering for the American Red Cross, the Lion’s Club, the Chamber of Commerce and many, many other civic organizations. And although he has earned the right to rest now and leave the work to others, Clyde Parker demonstrates no interest in stopping now.

Clyde is indeed, and undoubtedly, one of our greatest local treasures. Our community is better because he has been, and remains, such a vital part of it.