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Who we are ... We are the second, third and fourth generation living and working on The Ritter Farm, about two miles from Red Boiling Springs. We are hand crafters.: carvers, wood workers, quilters, artists, seamstresses, blacksmiths, wagon makers, potters, photographers, musicians and storytellers. We are continuing the crafts that have come from this farm for over 61 years.
Our talent comes from necessity as well as ability. We have learned what to do and how to do it, when we had to. Grandpa (George Dewey Ritter, 1898-1971) was farmer, blacksmith, wagon maker and furniture maker. His son Jack (1930-2003) continued the line as farmer, blacksmith and wagon maker. Now his grandson-in-law, Del Watson continues the tradition . Del is a master wood worker. Everything from conventional box cabinetry to hand carved moldings and appliques and yes, even wagons. Furniture is his love. Over 40 years of experience. Grandpa’s daughter, Edna, grew up right here on the farm. She has been a seamstress and quilter for over 70 years. She continues to sew for the public making quality quilts and clothing. Her daughter Rita continues the tradition that was begun by Edna’s mother (Lovie 1899-1936). Rita has worked as a Floral Designer, (managed shop in Durango, CO) Past -Chairman of Appalachian Potters Market (largest one day market in NC) Past President and Secretary for the McDowell Arts and Crafts Association (Marion, NC) Participated in Creative Expressions craft shop (Abilene TX). Today, she sews, paints, draws, needlework, crochets and does the book work for the farm and the business.
Karen: is the storyteller, writer, poet and graphic artist of the family. She keeps alive the oral traditions of the Ritter Farm. A member of Toastmasters International and the National Storytelling Network she has written several small books that recount her parent’s tales of growing up in middle Tennessee during the early 20th century and has recently recorded a CD of her stories. The tradition of farm living and handcrafts continues in Grandpa’s great-grandson. Josh Watson is a carrying on the blacksmithing, learning to create things the way his Great-grandfather did over 60 years ago. He works with his father Del on the farm and in the shops.
More than just a Craft Shop Grandpa’s House is also a mini-museum. Its focus it to preserve a history of the way life used to be for most of us that lived in Macon County in the early part of the 20th century. Be sure to read all the pictures and signs posted throughout Grandpa’s House to learn some of the history of this old country home and farm. Walk around the house, sit and visit on the porch. Bring your guitar and enjoy the shade of the trees. You are welcome to stay as long as you want at our Grandpa’s House.
All of the pictures above
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Grandpa's House is 1.5 miles south of TN 52. It is a little more than 2 miles from the three Red Boiling Springs hotels.
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