Doughton Day held at Courthouse; honors family's contributions

On Saturday afternoon, the late R.L. "Farmer Bob" Doughton was remembered for his years of service to the county and country when a painting that once was displayed in the U.S. House of Representatives was unveiled for display in the Alleghany Courthouse.

Judge Richard Doughton served as the master of ceremonies and as a speaker for the afternoon event, with other speakers including 5th District U.S. Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (R-Watauga) and Sparta Mayor John Miller. Members of the Doughton family were also given an opportunity to offer comments.

Following a invocation by the Rev. Bob Miller and the Pledge of Allegiance, Judge Doughton recognized the honored guests, including town and county officials, and opened the floor to Mayor Miller who spoke about another famous Doughton, Rufus Doughton, who went into state legislature in 1887 and held an active career in public life in the state until 1935.

"On the first trip to Raleigh, Gov. Doughton, as he became known by thousands after he served as lieutenant governor, traveled part of the way on horseback. Later, he was to play the leading part in the expansion and building of North Carolina's highways. R.A. Doughton was a tall man, as he towered above many. He was a sturdy oak whose influence spread throughout his life….He was always a friend of all educational institutions and many them owe much to him. He was a man of many talents....He was truly a great man with all his success. He remained civil, modest and sincere. His friends were among all walks of life. He was a man who could walk with kings and never lose the common touch. He was a shining example of our democratic way of life."

After thanking everyone for allowing her to come, Foxx remarked, "It's so important that we understand…I applaud all of you for the significance that you put on learning our history and knowing people like the Doughtons who have meant so much to this state. They were modest people themselves, obviously, but they deserve to be recognized."

Foxx continued, speaking of R.L. Doughton, "I do want to say to you in my opinion, Mr. Doughton was the epitome of what a member in Congress should be. He had a life before he went to Congress; he was a successful farmer as you all know and he has done things other than just be in Congress.