Portrayed by Keith Henley
In the 1920’s blacksmith and machinist William Chester Ruth(1882-1971) repaired agricultural equipment and tools in a shop near the Lancaster-Chester county line. The son and
grandson of South Carolina slaves, he developed, patented,made, marketed, and sold farm machinery. His two most successful inventions were a feeder for a bale press and a self lifting
elevator.
PLEASE NOTE: William Chester Ruth’s only surviving relative will be in attendance. Come out and meet Ms. Gwen Dickinson
About the presenter: Keith H. Henley is an actor, historical interpreter, playwright and director. Presently Keith works as an historic interpreter for his company J.O.Y. Productions, Historic Philadelphia Inc., and the American Historic Theatre Inc. both in Philadelphia. His love for history led him to create and produce the Black Heritage History Series which is dedicated to the accomplishments of African Americans and their impact on American history.
