To be known is to have a legacy, to be unknown is to go on without a trace. George W. Keller was able to defy the odds and do both. George was born around 1819 and grew up in Selinsgrove at a time of economic prosperity in the canal town. He also married Harriet Singer in 1844. Besides that, George is not really known in “official documents” for much more than being born, marrying, and working.

George was a boat-builder. That is how he was listed in the 1870 and 1880 census. For many years he was Selinsgrove’s “Veteran Boat Builder,” but to locals he was also the epitome of town temperance. Temperance was public opposition to excessive alcohol use, and the temperance movement was shaped and enforced during the second half of the nineteenth century. George actively participated in temperance meetings and became the “Canvass and Expostulation spokesperson” for the local movement. His task was to argue and defend temperance in a well-mannered and sound way. People in the town respected him for not only his connection with God and willingness to repent, but also his dedication to his work. The two sides of George were a local advocate for tough topics and, as some papers would list him as, the “Boat Yard Bell.”

George’s boat yard, the Third Yard or Lower Yard, was between the canal and Penn’s Creek, just south of Bough Street. It was one of the largest boat yards along the canal and was known for producing Pennsylvania-style canal boats. His yard created career opportunities for locals. Due to his high profile, he was elected a director of the Selinsgrove Building Association. George Keller provided sustainable resources and jobs. He was a boat builder, a loving husband, and a devoted disciple. He passed away on October 25, 1886.