Henry Rouse’s 200th birthday celebration was a conglomeration of historical artifacts, live music, art, food and socializing.

Staff gave guided tours of the Suites at Rouse. Guests saw where residents spend their time, the amenities, the apartments, and the kitchen, with hors d’oeuvres prepared on site.

While Tyler McClain provided live music, the front lobby was filled with art submissions for the Henry Rouse Art Contest and historical artifacts, including the boots Rouse was wearing during the explosion that caused his demise, borrowed from the Warren Historical Society for the occasion.

The Henry Rouse 200th Birthday Celebration Art Contest was open to residents, staff, and the community. The media type used was unlimited, and entries included video, paintings, collages, and quilting. The art contest winner, Linda Eberl, was announced during the celebration. Eberl created a quilted wall hanging in the likeness of Henry Rouse with exquisite detail.

Pictured is Linda Eberl posing with a standee of Henry Rouse in front of her quilted wall hanging, that was the first prize winner for the art contest.

In addition to the many works of art submitted for the contest, artwork by residents and staff members was displayed throughout the building. Residents Dick and Pat Nelson had a room full of leather and stained glass art that they both worked on throughout their marriage.

“We had a store down on Pennsylvania Avenue where we sold and repaired things for people. We have always worked together,” said Dick Nelson.

The couple also had several wooden pieces they had made, including a cradle.

“We have incredibly talented residents and staff in many facets,” said CEO Susan Teconchuk.

Led by Tyler McClain and Reyd Martin, director of CORE Services, the attendees sang happy birthday to the man described as kind and respected by his community.

Shown are Leatherwork, woodwork, and stained glass pieces all created by residents of the Rouse, married couple Dick and Pat Nelson.