Ruth Springer Wedgworth was widowed at an early age, with three small children to support, but quickly took firm hold of the family business, which centered on celery, sugar cane and produce in the Belle Glade area. She gained respect in what was then considered a man’s world by donning boots and joining them in the fields. Known as an innovator, she was a key organizer of the Florida Celery Exchange. She was also a charter member of the Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida.  She served on the Governor’s Committee on Migrant Workers, the Select Committee, which laid the groundwork for the Minimum Foundation Program for Florida education, as well as many other groups in the fields of health, education and social services. She was named Woman of the Year in Agriculture by Progressive Farmer Magazine, received a Distinguished Service Award from the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association and was named Woman of the Year in Florida Agriculture.