John Clarke Whitaker was born on this day in 1891, in Winston-Salem, to William and Anna Bitting Whitaker.
He attended the University of North Carolina and Guilford College. In 1913, he joined R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, and was the first operator of the first machine to make Camel cigarettes, introduced in 1913.
John became a supervisor in the cigarette manufacturing division, then volunteered for service in the Navy during World War I.
When he returned from military service, he became manager of the personnel division, and worked here for 29 years. Then he was elected to be a member of the board of directors. He became president in 1948 and chairman of the board in 1952. He resigned all active positions in 1960, but remained on the board and served as a consultant.
When he was in charge of the personnel division, he created a central employment office and established the company’s personnel program.
He was often referred to as “Mr. John” by the employees. Whitaker Park cigarette plant was named for him in 1958.
Under his leadership, R. J. Reynolds prospered and expanded, introducing the Winston and Salem brands, and building new facilities.
Whitaker was also active in the community. He helped raise money for the Forsyth Memorial Hospital. The rehabilitation center was named for him in 1972. He served on the hospital board for many years.
Whitaker also enjoyed music, and played the zither.
He married Elizabeth Norman.
Whitaker passed away in 1978.
Photo courtesy of Forsyth County Public Library Photograph Collection.
