Dugatto announces 3 Derby Hall of Fame inductees

 

DERBY - As a prelude to the annual Derby Day festivities, Mayor Anita Dugatto announced the selection of three new members to the Derby Hall of Fame, resident Jack Walsh said today in a release. 
Derby Day will be held June 14. 

The Class of 2014 represents a wide range of talents and interests on the local, national and international level. 

It includes a beloved local public servant, the founder of one of this nation's iconic chemical companies, and a respected international author, artist, and war correspondent.

Henry M. Bradley, Jr., Herbert Henry Dow, and Graham Peck are just three more of the exceptional men and women who passed through Derby on their way to fame.

Henry M. Bradley served as Derby's state senator in the 1930s and he authored the 1935 legislation that required the teaching of American History in Connecticut's high schools. 
He was a noted writer and lecturer on American history as well as a dedicated civic leader in his hometown of Derby.

Herbert Henry Dow grew up in Derby but is better known as a scientist, inventor and founder of the well-known Dow Chemical Co. 

Graham Peck also grew up in Derby and went on to a career as war correspondent, artist and author. This Yale University graduate is especially well known for his books on China written before and after World War II and warning of the tumultuous changes developing in that country. 

He also authored several children’s books. 
Though he died in Vermont in 1968, he is buried in Oak Cliff cemetery.

Hall of Fame has 38 members

With the three newest inductees the Derby Hall of Fame now numbers 38 members. 
Started in 2007, the Derby Hall of Fame is made up of Derby natives and residents who have helped to shape the course of history through their achievements at the local, state, national or international level. 

Each of these individuals selected was either born in Derby or lived here at some point in his/her life. Living individuals are not eligible for selection. The physical Hall of Fame can be found on the Plaza at the entrance to the Derby Greenway on Division Street. 

On Derby Day each year, the new members are recognized with a specially inscribed brick placed around the fountain in the center of the plaza. 

A more complete description of their accomplishments can be found in the Hall of Fame section of the Derby website (http://www.electronicvalley.org/derby/HallofFame/).


This is a press release from resident Jack Walsh, President and COO of Valley United Way.