The History of Pump House Ministries

Twenty adults and several children got together and decided to “show God’s love in practical ways”

In 1999, a group of twenty adults and several children got together and decided to “show God’s love in practical ways.” With Pastor G. Bruce Wilkinson as the leader, The Pump House Ministries was born. The name was chosen for the ministry long before property was acquired because the group and many others believed that one day they would be blessed with the pump house building to serve in, which was originally built and owned by F. E. Myers & Bro. Pump manufacturing plant.

The group started with discussions in the home of the Wilkinson family where they planned dinners and events to reach out to many in need within the Ashland community. The first project was an Easter dinner free to the public and then “Summer of Fun,” a summer program for elementary school aged children was planned. Next, “Christmas in Ashland” was organized and served out of the Wilkinson home. With many helping hands, food and gifts for every child in each home designated as needing a little extra help, were donated, wrapped, and delivered.

In 2003, the 14-acre piece of downtown Ashland property was donated to The Pump House Ministries, Inc. which included the pump house building by the former owners of Landoll Publishing Company. The property came with 100,000 sq. ft. of office space, 300,000 sq. ft of industrial/manufacturing/warehouse space and 18 houses. Under the leadership of Pastor Bruce, the acquired property has aided The Pump House Ministries to institute various multi-faceted ministries like The Homestead Men's Shelter and the Food Pantry.