Brooks Smith
Brooks Smith
Brooks Smith is a Richmond lawyer, writer and storyteller. His Rediscovering Richmond commentary series has aired regularly on WCVE Public Radio since September 2005. Through these commentaries, Brooks has reprised all manner of forgotten tales that tell the story of Richmond.

Stories from Brooks Smith...

Houdini at the Bijou Theatre

Brooks Smith in Essays

The world's most famous magician, Harry Houdini, performed in Richmond back in 1900. At that time, he was still an emerging artist on the vaudeville circuit, a step above his dime museum days but still a year or so away from becoming an international sensation.

Richmond “Pro” Football

Brooks Smith in Essays

Pro football in Richmond dates back to the 1930’s, when the Richmond Rebels were part of the fabled Dixie Pro Football League, sometimes called the third of the three majors.

Early Roots of College Football In Richmond

Brooks Smith in Essays

Richmond formed its first club football team in 1878, less than a decade after the first inter-collegiate game in America.

Charles Sidney Gilpin

Brooks Smith in Essays

Charles Sidney Gilpin was a break-through stage actor – one of the first African American performers to transcend the racial barriers of the early 20th century. But his career is a gripping reminder of the dual threats of racial prejudice and economic hardship.

Barn Dance

Brooks Smith in Essays

 Commentator Brooks Smith shares a story about the Old Dominion Barn Dance.

Arthur Ashe

Brooks Smith in Essays

Commentator Brooks Smith is rediscovering Richmond's sports history. In this segment, he recalls the life and career of tennis great Arthur Ashe.

Historic Tobacco Row a vibrant part of Richmond's past and present

Brooks Smith in Essays

Brooks Smith explores a former industrial area now a flourishing residential district.