March 20, 2025

Ingenuity and Savvy: WCU Celebrates William Chester Ruth, African American Inventor and Businessman

William Chester Ruth (1882-1971), an African American inventor, entrepreneur, and minister from Chester County On Tuesday, March 25, West Chester University will honor the achievements and history of William Chester Ruth (1882-1971), an African American inventor, entrepreneur, and minister from Chester County who built and sold his patented farm equipment and other machinery throughout the United States.

Some of Ruth’s descendants will be on hand for the occasion, which recognizes the donation of Ruth’s papers to WCU’s Special Collections by the William Chester Ruth Legacy Project, which honors the achievements of this ingenious and courageous businessman.

William Chester Ruth was born and raised on his family’s farm in Ercildoun, PA, then opened his own manufacturing shop in Gap, PA. During his time, he invented different types of farm equipment including balers, spreaders, as well as the first salt spreader attachments used by PennDOT. He also invented secret items for the military during WWII, amusement park-style rides for his grandchildren to play on, and more.

“Ruth is an important figure because he built a thriving business, designed, built, and obtained many patents for equipment that contributed to farming, road maintenance, and even military efforts during WWII,” notes Ron McColl, WCU Special Collections librarian. “His parents were formerly enslaved, and he had only an eighth-grade education. He exemplifies for WCU students and community members the qualities of ingenuity, self-confidence, courage, business savvy, honesty, dedication to family, positivity, and much more. His life and work should be an inspiration for students majoring or interested in business, engineering, history, race, and religion among other things.”

Ruth’s legacy will be celebrated with appearances and guest speakers from his family members, Tonya Thames-Taylor, WCU Associate professor of history, and Bruce Bomberger, former curator at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum who displayed Ruth’s creations.

Following the event, Ruth’s papers will officially be donated and housed in WCU’s Special Collections.

All are welcome to attend this free educational experience with light refreshments from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in Special Collections on the sixth floor of Francis Harvey Green Library at 25 West Rosedale Avenue.

 

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