Discover the Legacy of Wm. Chester Ruth at the HPT’s Speaker Series

Mark your calendars for an evening of history, family stories, and community legacy at the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County’s first session of our 2025 Speaker Series, The Preservation Palette: Colors of Our Past. Join us on Wednesday, February 12th, 2025, at 6:30 PM, at the historic Sehner-Ellicott-von Hess House, located at 123 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA.

Our first session will feature Gwendolyn Ruth Dickinson, granddaughter of the esteemed Wm. Chester Ruth. Through a unique blend of memorabilia, photographs, and her own personal experiences, Ms. Dickinson will bring her grandfather’s inspiring story to life. Attendees will also be treated to a short documentary film, showcasing heartfelt accounts from farmers, patrons, and neighbors who relied on Wm. C. Ruth’s machine shop to keep their farms and businesses thriving.

Who was Wm. Chester Ruth?
Willam Chester Ruth (1882–1971) was an African American machinist, inventor, and business owner from Pennsylvania. Born in Ercildoun to parents who overcame slavery, Ruth developed a passion for machinery early on, leading him to establish Ruth's Ironworks Shop in Gap, PA, in 1922. Over his career, he secured more than 50 patents for agricultural innovations, including the Combination Baler Feeder and a self-lifting farm elevator, significantly enhancing farming efficiency. Beyond his mechanical contributions, Ruth was a respected community leader and lay minister, dedicating his life to both technological advancement and spiritual guidance.

Wm. Chester Ruth’s machine shop played a pivotal role in sustaining the local community, and this presentation offers a rare opportunity to delve into the life and legacy of a man who shaped the lives of so many in Lancaster County.

Event Details

• Date: Wednesday, February 12th, 2025
• Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM, and the program begins at 6:30 PM
• Location: Sehner-Ellicott-von Hess House, 123 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA
• Cost: By donation
• Registration: Space is limited to 50 attendees, so secure your spot now by completing the following form.

Don’t miss this intimate evening of storytelling and community history. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a preservation advocate, or simply curious about local legends, this event promises a memorable experience.

We look forward to welcoming you to this special evening celebrating the enduring impact of Wm. Chester Ruth and his contributions to our community!