author
R. Sturgis (Robert Sturgis) Ingersoll
b. 1891
A Philadelphia lawyer and arts patron, he helped shape the Philadelphia Museum of Art in the mid-20th century and was often listed as R. Sturgis Ingersoll. His life moved between law, civic leadership, and deep support for museums and cultural institutions.
1 Audiobook
Open That Door!
by R. Sturgis (Robert Sturgis) Ingersoll
About the author
Born in Philadelphia on December 16, 1891, Robert Sturgis Ingersoll was educated at St. Paul's School and Princeton, then earned a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He built his career as an attorney in Philadelphia and was widely known in formal listings as R. Sturgis Ingersoll.
He is best remembered for his long leadership at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The museum's records identify him as president of the corporation from 1948 to 1964, and as chairman of the Board of Governors from 1947 to 1959, a role he helped establish.
Although he was not primarily known as a literary figure, his name appears in art and archival contexts because of his close involvement with collecting, museums, and cultural life in Philadelphia. He died in 1973, leaving a legacy tied to the city's legal and artistic institutions.