My name is Howard Dale Ritter. I was born in Ritchey in 1935 and lived there until 1953. I was called by my middle name, Dale, while I was growing up in Ritchey and attending school. After becoming employed, working associates called me by my first name, Howard. Now, I am comfortable with either.

My family has deep ties to Ritchey and I often visit there, where my sister still lives. One of my grandfathers was the section foreman for the Frisco Railroad. The other grandfather worked as a section hand. My father was the Frisco depot agent for a while and also janitor at the school. My great uncle was the village blacksmith.

I contemplated this web site for a couple of years before retirement. My intent is to promote the village with the hope that the people of Ritchey will benefit in some way. I seek no personal gain, and hope that those who visit will enjoy it. I would be grateful for pictures that depict the history of Ritchey and Ritchey families and welcome suggestions for improving the web site. I would also like to hear from people who would be willing to explore the following with me:

• ESTABLISHMENT OF A SCHOLARSHIP FUND TO BENEFIT RITCHEY AREA YOUTH

• ESTABLISHMENT OF AN ORGANIZATION TO EDUCATE AND EXCITE AREA YOUTH ON THE MULTITUDE OF CAREER OPPORTUNITIES, BOTH IN THE OZARKS AND BEYOND.

If you are interested in learning more about the history of Ritchey, as well as other villages in Eastern Newton County, I recommend a new book entitled "The Monark Towns and Surrounding Villages" by Mr. Larry James, 400 W. Susan Place, Neosho, MO 64850. This book contains some history of Ritchey, Newtonia, Stark City, Fairview, and other small villages. Pricing after June 1, 1999 is $25.00 plus $4.00 postage. Orders placed before then are $18.00 plus postage. During this interim period a book about Neosho will also be included, until supplies are depleted, for an additional $2.00 in postage. I occasionally refer to the "Monark Towns" book and have used some of the pictures with the permission of Mr. James.

Many people have provided information and pictures for this web site and have been enthusiastic about this effort. I would like to thank my own brothers and sisters, several of the Smerdon’s, Mr. Gregory Largen, Mr. Larry James, and my son Michael, who has been the primary computer expert.

I am pleased that you visited this web site. I hope that you enjoy your time here and that you return often. May God bless you.

HOWARD DALE RITTER
306 East 22^nd Ave
Belton, TX 76513

254-939-8466
ritterh@vvm.com