Bradford Area Public Library is offering a panel discussion on Solomon Dresser and the Dresser Mansion from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday.
The program is free and open to the public.
Inspired by the interest in a recent article on the Dresser mansion, the library is offering a panel discussion on Dresser and his magnificent mansion. Several people came into the library and shared their memories of the Dresser mansion and its devastating fire. Some said that they had items relating to the home or the Dresser family.
Dean Fox will start the discussion by talking about the life and work of Solomon Dresser. Diane Hatch Ramsay will follow up by talking about the building and architectural details of the Dresser Mansion. She will also discuss her memories of working in the home at the Dresser Memorial Presbyterian Home for the Aged and her friendship with members of the Dresser family. She will share rarely seen pictures from inside the home. Ron Hogan, a retired firefighter/EMT with the City of Bradford Fire Department, will share how he and a total of 100 firefighters from the city, Bradford Township and Lewis Run fought the fire which destroyed the home. The fire occurred on a freezing night on Feb. 28, 1986.
Following the presentations, attendees are welcome to ask panelists questions or share memories of the Dressers or the mansion. In addition, items from the Dressers or of the home will be on display.
Solomon Dresser claimed that “nothing was left undone to make this mansion one of the finest in the land.” He was right. It was the finest in Bradford and its surrounding areas. All that remains of the Dresser Home is an empty but kept lot and many memories for Bradfordians.
