Roy Crawford
Carr Creek Oral History Project
This collection is comprised of audio-recorded interviews conducted during 2022-2023 by folklorist Nicole Musgrave with support from the Kentucky Oral History Commission. Her work was part of an effort to document the geographic and human impact of the construction of the Carr Fork Reservoir in southeastern Kentucky, which was completed in 1976. The collection’s twenty interviews with residents of Knott, Letcher and Perry Counties range in focus and content. Most of the interviewees were affected by dislocation in some way. They express different opinions about the lake and its impact on the community. Most interviewees share memories of what the area was like before the lake was built, and many have vivid memories of what the construction process was like.
National Capital Contracting
Roy Crawford is a retired forensic engineer with a specialized background as a licensed coal mining engineer. His professional journey is deeply rooted in the Carr Creek area of Knott County, Kentucky, where his family has historical ties through the ownership of mineral rights. Crawford's career encompassed a pivotal role where he bridged the gap between administrative offices and the operational frontlines of the mines. His expertise in the field of engineering, coupled with his intimate knowledge of the local mining industry, positioned him as a key figure in legal proceedings. As a seasoned expert, he has taken the stand in federal court to provide testimony on matters concerning the condemnation of property, particularly in cases where environmental concerns such as water quality protection were at stake. Crawford's extensive experience in the engineering and mining sectors, along with his legal testimonies, have contributed to his reputation as a knowledgeable and reliable professional in his field.
Scope and Content Note
The interview with Roy Crawford offers a comprehensive overview of his personal and professional connections to the Carr Creek area in Knott County, Kentucky. Crawford delves into his family's history of owning mineral rights in the region and his role as a liaison between the mining operations and office management. He reflects on his experiences testifying in federal court about property condemnation for the sake of water quality protection around the lake. Furthermore, Crawford provides insights into the original purpose behind the construction of the lake and its anticipated recreational use. He shares anecdotes from his own life, recounting times spent at the lake, including during the pandemic. The conversation also touches upon Crawford's encounter with a freshwater jellyfish in the man-made lake, raising issues related to water quality and the presence of coliform bacteria. He discusses the utilization of the lake for activities such as swimming and boating, expressing his aspirations for the future of the lake area. The impact of recent flooding on the lake and its surroundings is another topic of concern addressed in the interview. The dialogue concludes with Crawford's observations on the ambient sounds of birds in the area and his thoughts on the recording process of the interview. This oral history captures Crawford's multifaceted relationship with the Carr Creek area, blending his professional expertise with his personal experiences and environmental considerations.
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