A warm smile awaits anyone who meets Bill Hall.  The room glows as he reminisces about his life and the town of Riverton.  You get the sense that he enjoys life and everything it has to offer.  When asked he says, “My life is just great!”

Hall was born in Philadelphia in 1924 to Kathryn and George Elsworth Hall.  He was brought from the hospital to a home in Riverton near Broad and Lippincott, and is a lifelong resident of  Riverton.  In 1941, he graduated from Palmyra High School. Ten years later, Bill married Nancy Ritschard and together they had 3 children, Betsy, Margie, and John. 

Another love of Bill’s is sailing.  The Riverton Yacht Club was his hang out sailing his Duster #25.  He crewed during the racing season with old Riverton folks like Charlie Knight and Knut Hunn.  During the off season, they headed down to the eastern shore of Maryland towing one of their sailboats to race on the Chester River and other hot spots.

Although it seems like there was no free time remaining for such an active man, Bill and his wife Nancy became involved in the ground floor efforts of Urban Promise, an initiative in Camden offering education, summer activities, and programs to support and enrich the lives of urban kids. He employed his enthusiasm for biking to raise funds for scholarships for Urban Promise youth, and participated in cycling outings well into his 80’s. 

As a lifelong Rivertonian, Bill has many fond memories of the 4th of July, like the fireworks off the yacht club.  The riverbank was crowded with spectators from all over the area to enjoy the show.  He remembers making many floats with his family for the parade.  Bill and his wife used to get all decked out in 4th of July finery and ride a tandem bike at the front of the parade. Over the years, he has marched in our parade many times and in a variety of capacities.

This year, Bill Hall will once again be in the Riverton 4th of July Parade, this time at the front as the 2024 Parade Marshal.  For his support of the community and contributions to making Riverton a great place to live, it is an honor he truly deserves.  As he rides up the parade route, make sure to wish him a happy birthday, since he turns 100 on August 2nd, 2024.  What a way to celebrate!

Written by Tracy Foedisch