C. Judson Shook Oral History

Mr. Shook passed away in April 2010.  His efforts to save the Texas School Book Depository building were formally recognized in 1979, when the Texas Historical Commission gave him the John Neely Bryan Award, an annual prize for an individual who has made a significant contribution to preserving Dallas County history.  In her oral history, Lindalyn Adams, who spearheaded The Sixth Floor exhibition project for twelve years, remarked, "No one can ever give enough credit to Judson Shook for this whole project, because if it hadn't been for Judson, the county wouldn't have purchased the building. I'm convinced of that." - Stephen Fagin, Curator

Mr. Shook's concern for the future of the Texas School Book Depository building came about while staring out his office window in the county Records Building overlooking Dealey Plaza.  Day after day, and at all possible hours, he observed people arriving and walking around the Plaza apparently trying to make sense of what happened at that historic location.  While he wasn't sure what needed to be done, the realization that the site was important to many, many people had a profound impact on the man. - Gary Mack, Curator