Library Lovers: Ruth Davies

As you walk through various buildings on campus, have you noticed all the different portraits gazing down on you? Or that the stained glass windows in Slocum depict male historical figures? But who are they, and why are they important? I’d like to bring your attention to one memorable faculty member and Beeghly library patron who has significantly impacted Ohio Wesleyan’s community.

Ruth Davies was an English professor here on campus from 1929 to 1987. She is a legend in literary circles and was one of our longest-serving faculty members. Professor Davies made significant contributions to English. In 1941, she constructed the ENG 255 course, “The Devil, Hero, and God,” which is still being taught today. She also founded the Humanities department, which was originally an off-shoot of English and Classics and whose coursework has since been reintegrated back into English.

For several years, she was the chair of the English department despite being one of the only female professors in the department. To quote Professor Merkel, who now teaches Ruth’s ENG 255 course, she “was a great model of female expertise.” In short, Davies was a pioneer. But Davies’s contribution to the English Department isn’t the only notable thing about her! 

Ruth had a deep love for all things literary which correlated to a love for libraries, especially Beeghly Library. Her appreciation for Beeghly was so vast that Ruth’s home once stood across from the library where Hamilton Williams now stands. Imagine waking up each morning, and the first thing you see is a library! It’s a literary lover’s dream! Professor Davies put a lot of personal funds into the library and donated to the “Friends of Beeghly Library” organization dedicated to maintaining Beeghly. As a result, her portrait hangs within the walls of Beeghly, a testament to her value to our campus and academic community. 

When I spoke with Professor Merkel, she suggested that Ruth’s portrait be moved to Slocum now that the OWU library will be rebuilt. Why? Because if you’ve ever looked up at the stained glass ceiling you will notice that the portraits are all male. Moving Ruth’s portrait would be a great way to recognize a vital female academic who has impacted Ohio Wesleyan in many positive ways. Giving space to those who have contributed to our campus community is essential. 

Ruth Davies was not just some wealthy benefactor outside of the Ohio Wesleyan community who decided to donate funds to Beeghly. No. She was an important member of our college campus and a longstanding faculty member who poured love and passion into all things literary. From her contributions to the English department to donations to Beeghly, Ruth Davies is a testament to what it means to be a true library patron—someone dedicated to bettering their academic community.