William Rust was an industrialist and pioneering force in the Pacific Northwest. In the late 1800s and turn of the century, he expanded the metal smelters in the area. In the early 1900’s his refining business created the first electrolytic copper refinery on the West coast. His economic boom to the region brought jobs and prosperity to the area. In fact, the town of Ruston was named after him in 1906. His other impacts in the region include the expansion of the Tacoma General Hospital, the now Joint Base Lewis McChord Military base and thriving Point Ruston region. For nearly 107 years, Rust Mansion has held its place in history. This legacy property has been home to the namesake of leading business magnates. The property was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.