Remembering Harrison Ruffin Tyler: The Last Grandson of a U.S. President Passes Away at 96

Harrison Ruffin Tyler, the last surviving grandson of President John Tyler, passed away recently at the age of 96. His death marks the end of a direct connection to the early days of the United States. Harrison was known for his charm and love of history, particularly his family’s legacy. He dedicated much of his life to preserving historical sites, including Sherwood Forest, his grandfather’s home in Virginia.

Born in 1928, Harrison had a successful career as a chemical engineer and co-founded ChemTreat, a company that provided industrial water treatment solutions. Under his leadership, the company grew substantially, serving clients like Kraft Foods and Ford. It was acquired in 2007 for $200 million, a testament to his business acumen.

Harrison’s passion for history extended beyond business. He spent years restoring Sherwood Forest, which had fallen into disrepair after the Civil War. The estate, now a national historic landmark, features the longest frame house in the United States and is known for its ghostly inhabitant, the "Gray Lady." He also worked to preserve Fort Pocahontas, a Civil War-era fortification nearby.

In addition to his preservation efforts, Harrison was committed to education. He and his wife donated $5 million to the College of William & Mary to establish an endowment for the history department. This funding supports research on various topics, including slavery and discrimination.

John Tyler, Harrison’s grandfather, served as the 10th president of the United States. His presidency was marked by significant events such as the annexation of Texas. Despite controversial stances, including a commitment to states’ rights and a later affiliation with the Confederacy, he is also remembered for his attempts to prevent civil conflict.

Now, with Harrison’s passing, the Tyler family hopes to continue their historical legacy. Sherwood Forest remains a private foundation, ensuring that their family history will be preserved for future generations.

Harrison once reflected on his family’s historical significance, saying, "When you talk about my grandfather born in the 1700s, there is a disconnect." Yet, he found pride in his lineage as he grew older. His life connects the rich history of America with modern times, embodying the enduring legacy of his ancestors.

For those interested in learning more about the Tyler family and their contributions to history, you can explore additional resources at Sherwood Forest.

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