John R. Surratt

Term Served

1961 to 1963

Accomplishments in Office

New to public office and only 33 years old, John Surratt became an innovator: the city flag, key to the city, and Sister Cities program were among his contributions. Reserved in demeanor but acting with resolution, he accomplished the following:

  • Brought his legal knowledge to bear by creating a traffic court
  • Encouraging cooperation among cities of the Piedmont Triad
  • Keeping swimming pools open through racial unrest
  • Starting a downtown development program
John R. Surratt