Ruth Reininghaus [EM RA 1973-2025]

First name: Ruth
Middle name: 
Last name: Reininghaus

Member: Emeritus resident artist member
Begin: 1973
End: 2025

Biography:

Birth: October 4, 1922
Death: April 9, 2025

Ruth Reininghaus was a groundbreaker in the truest sense; she was a woman of ‘firsts’. She was among the first group of women elected to Salmagundi Club membership in December 1973, breaking over a century of tradition in what had been previously an all male organization. A decade later Ruth became Salmagundi’s first woman President, serving from 1983-1987, and in 1989 she became the first woman to receive the Salmagundi Medal of Honor for her exemplary service. She served as chairman of the Admissions Committee from 1981-83 and as club Curator from 1989-2004. Ruth was also a fellow of The American Artists Professional League; Catherine Lorillard Wolfe Club; Hudson Valley Art Association; Pastel Society of America; Pen and Brush Club; COGAP and others.

Ruth worked hard for Salmagundi and was not afraid to roll up her sleeves and fight for the Club’s benefit. During her term as President she worked diligently to get us off New York City tax rolls to alleviate our property tax burden. She was also not afraid to ruffle the feathers of some board members who were not taking their responsibilities seriously. Ruth’s support and advocacy for women members and officers were unstinting. Yet, she was only as ‘tough as nails’ when she had to be. Ruth was a warm, caring, and nurturing light at Salmagundi and much beloved by those who knew her. Her passing has closed a chapter of our history and she will be sorely missed.

Artworks: