Harrison Ruffin Tyler, the last living grandson of 10th U.S. President John Tyler, passed away at 96, leaving behind a legacy of family history and historic preservation efforts.

The passing of Harrison Ruffin Tyler removes the last direct link to President John Tyler, a complex figure in American history known for both his role in expanding the nation and his ties to slavery. Harrison dedicated his life to preserving this legacy, opening Sherwood Forest to the public and funding projects to educate future generations about the Civil War and his family's history. As a result, his death not only signifies the loss of a living connection to this historical figure but also highlights the ongoing struggle to reconcile the ideals of past presidents with contemporary values, underscoring the importance of preserving history while critically engaging with its legacy.

Harrison Ruffin Tyler was born on November 9, 1928, to Lyon Gardiner Tyler, who was 75 years old at the time. As the grandson of John Tyler, Harrison was part of a history that spanned over two centuries and a number of significant developments in American history. John Tyler was president from 1841 to 1845 and was the only president to assume office after the death of his predecessor, William Henry Harrison, just 31 days into their term.

John Tyler, who was born in 1790, played a pivotal role in the doctrine of Manifest Destiny, which fueled American expansionism in the 19th century. Notably, he signed a bill that offered Texas statehood, an action that would later have profound implications for the United States. However, his legacy is also shadowed by his prominence as a slaveholder, which is a critical aspect of his time in office.

Harrison Ruffin Tyler took on the responsibility of preserving his family's legacy. Among his most significant contributions was co-founding ChemTreat in 1968, a company that specializes in water treatment solutions. This venture not only exemplified his business acumen but also provided him with the means to engage in philanthropic activities later in life.

In efforts to honor his grandfather's memory, Harrison restored Sherwood Forest, the historic plantation that was once John Tyler’s home. Today, this site serves as a museum, allowing visitors to learn more about the Tyler family's history and their impact on American society. Harrison’s dedication to making Sherwood Forest accessible to the public reflects a commitment to education and historical preservation.

Harrison Ruffin Tyler also made significant contributions to preserving Civil War history. He financed the preservation of Fort Pocahontas, an earthwork that played a role in the American Civil War. This initiative not only protects a piece of history but also ensures that future generations can learn about the complex narratives surrounding the war.

In addition to his preservation work, Harrison made substantial donations to educational institutions. In 2001, he donated thousands of historical papers and books, as well as $5 million to the history department at the College of William & Mary. This generous contribution has provided resources for future scholars to study American history and explore the narratives that shaped the nation.

Harrison’s life was also marked by unique personal experiences. At the age of 8, he was invited to the White House to meet with President Franklin D. Roosevelt, an encounter that linked him to some of the highest levels of American governance. Furthermore, his ancestry extends beyond John Tyler, as he is also connected to Pocahontas through his mother, enriching the historical tapestry of his lineage.

Harrison Ruffin Tyler was married until the death of his wife in 2019 and is survived by three children and numerous grandchildren. His family continues the legacy of engaging with the past while looking toward the future. The combination of personal loss and the passing of a historical figure creates a poignant moment as his descendants reflect on their connection to President John Tyler and the broader history of the United States.

As Harrison’s passing marks the end of a chapter in American history, it emphasizes the importance of remembering and preserving the complexities of the past. While John Tyler’s presidency was characterized by significant expansion and political maneuvering, it is also critical to engage with the moral legacies that accompany these historical figures. The loss of Harrison Ruffin Tyler serves as a reminder of the intertwined narratives of American history, urging contemporary society to reconcile the stories of its founders with the implications of their actions.