Benton city officials will dedicate the Town Creek Bridge in honor of former Circuit Clerk and County Clerk W.J. “Toad” Brien, Jr. on Friday, June 9.
W.J. “Toad” Brien, Jr. was Marshall County’s longest serving elected official having served as County Clerk from 1953 to 1969, Circuit Court Clerk from 1969 to 1994, and Benton City Councilman in 1997. During his career, Brien served as President of both the Kentucky County Clerk’s Association and the Kentucky Circuit Clerk’s Association.
Brien passed away in September 1997.
The Benton City Council voted unanimously to adopt the resolution to rename the bridge in Brien’s honor at their regular meeting in April and the measure was approved by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. “The city of Benton is happy to honor Toad Brien for all his contributions to the city of Benton and the entire county,” said Mayor Rita Dotson.
“Toad Brien served our community faithfully for over forty years and helped countless people along the way which garnered him the reputation as ‘the public’s friend in the courthouse.’ I’m glad to see our community finally pay tribute to this extraordinary public servant,’” said Benton City Councilman and local Marshall County historian Justin Lamb.
Brien’s daughter, Charlotte Brien Wilzbach, who is now resident of South Carolina, will be in attendance to unveil the bridge marker in honor of her late father. “My father felt that it was a true privilege to serve the people of Marshall County for over 40 years. He would be so humbled and honored that this recognition is being bestowed in his memory by the Benton City Council.”
The bridge is located on Main Street near the Benton Drive-In. The ceremony will begin at 2pm and the public is encouraged to attend.
For More Information Contact:
Justin Lamb
Benton City Councilman
(270) 703-6253
jlamb@murraystate.edu