Gerard Parker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Clifford Gerard Parker
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|---|---|
| Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians | |
| In office 1995–1995 |
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| Preceded by | Jonathan L. Taylor |
| Succeeded by | Joyce Dugan |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 24, 1936 |
| Died | December 1, 2012 (aged 76) |
| Nationality | Eastern Band Cherokee, American |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service | United States Army |
| Battles/wars | Korean War |
Clifford Gerard Parker, known as Gerard Parker (born July 24, 1936 – died December 1, 2012), was an important leader of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. He served as the 23rd Principal Chief for a short time in 1995. Before that, he was the Vice Chief for six years. He also continued to serve as Vice Chief after his time as Principal Chief.
Gerard Parker was a representative for Painttown on the tribal council for 16 years. He helped the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) get ready for emergencies.
Contents
About Gerard Parker's Life
Early Life and Family
Gerard Parker was born into a big family in 1936. He had two sisters, Elba Crain and Christine Parker. He also had three brothers named Carroll, Don, and Thomas Parker.
He later started his own family. His children were Forrest Gerard Parker, Joshua Thomas Parker, James R. Welch, Brad Parker, Gerena Parker, and Lori Lambert.
Military Service and Career
Parker was a brave soldier in the United States Army. He served during the Korean War. After his military service, he worked in business. He became the General Manager of the tribe's Boundary Tree Hotel. This hotel was one of the first businesses owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
His Time as a Leader
Gerard Parker was very active in tribal politics. He was elected many times to represent Painttown on the tribal council. He served on the council for 16 years.
In 1989, he was elected as the Vice Chief. He served in this role for six years under Principal Chief Jonathan L. Taylor. During this time, Chief Taylor worked on an agreement with the state of North Carolina. This agreement allowed the EBCI to open a gaming casino on their land. The casino, named Harrah's Cherokee, opened in 1997.
In 1995, Chief Taylor left office before the new Principal Chief was sworn in. Gerard Parker stepped in and served as Principal Chief for 16 days. After that, he went back to being Vice Chief. He served under Joyce Dugan, who was elected Principal Chief in 1995.
