Smoak, Marion (b. 1916)

Papers, 1964-1968, .5 ft.

Marion H. Smoak helped form a viable Republican Party in South Carolina in the early 1960s through grassroots efforts and made history in 1966 when he became one of the first Republicans to serve in the South Carolina State Senate since Reconstruction. He graduated from The Citadel, served in WWII, taught at West Point, and served as a legislative liaison officer in D.C. He retired from military service in 1961 as Lieutenant Colonel. He served one term as State Senator and then worked with the State Department in Washington, D.C. from 1969 and 1974. Smoak practiced with the law firm of Shipley, Smoak, and Henry in Washington, D.C.

Collection Finding Aid
Originating from a scrapbook, the .5 linear feet of Marion Smoak Papers provide insight into both his 1964 and 1966 campaigns, as well as his time in the State Senate, 1967 to 1968. The papers contain a general folder, campaign material, clippings, and photographs. Of particular interest are papers and photographs documenting the Smoaks’ friendship with Barry Goldwater.

Related Link:

Oral history interview with Smoak, (1988, 24 pages | Library of Congress: Foreign Affairs Oral History Collection of the Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training)