Surrounding the Ed Westcott statue are Westcott’s children: Emily Westcott Hunnicutt, John Westcott, Jim Westcott and David Westcott
ORPHA Dedicates Statue Honoring James Edward Westcott, Sr., Manhattan Project Photographer
On Saturday, May 2, the Oak Ridge Heritage and Preservation Association (ORHPA) unveiled and dedicated a statue honoring James Edward Westcott, Sr., the renowned Manhattan Project photographer. The bronze statue now stands at the entrance of the Oak Ridge History Museum, welcoming visitors and commemorating Westcott’s lasting legacy.
The idea for a statue honoring Ed Westcott was first discussed during the early years of ORHPA. The original committee included Mick Wiest, Bobbie Martin, David Bradshaw, and Barbara Ferrell. Although financial constraints delayed the project for many years, the vision was never abandoned. Fundraising efforts began in 2022. A real grass-roots effort, contributions came from individuals and local organizations. The project gained significant momentum when Mick Wiest applied for and secured a grant from the ORNL Federal Credit Union in 2023. This grant brought fundraising to the halfway mark and enabled the Randolph Rose Collection to begin the design process. Although the statue has now been placed at the Museum, ORHPA still owes approximately $3,000, so donations are still welcome. You can drop off a check or contribute via credit card at the Museum, or mail to ORHPA, Box 5825, Oak Ridge, TN 37831. Please note “Westcott statue” on your check.
ORHPA is proud to honor Westcott and recognize his extraordinary contributions to documenting and preserving the history of Oak Ridge and its critical role during World War II.
The Ed Westcott statue and base stands 6-foot-6-inches tall. It weighs 250 pounds.
Anderson County and Oak Ridge officials attending the statue ceremony were Phil Yager, Charles Hensley, Terry Frank, Warren Gooch, Ellen Smith, Jim Dodson and Don Bell.
