who we are
We are the second, third, fourth and fifth generation living and working on The Ritter Farm, about two miles from Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee. We are hand crafters: carvers, wood workers, quilters, artists, seamstresses, blacksmiths, wagonmakers, potters, photographers, musicians and storytellers. We are continuing the crafts that have come from this farm for more than 75 years. Our talent comes from necessity as well as ability.
Grandpa (George Dewey Ritter, 1898-1971) was a farmer, blacksmith, coopersmith, 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 with more than 40 years experience. Everything from conventional box cabinetry to hand carved moldings and appliques and yes, even wagons. Furniture is his love.
Grandpa’s daughter, Edna Joyce (Ritter) Davis, grew up on the farm. She has been a seamstress and quilter for more than 70 years. She continues to sew for the public making quality quilts and clothing.
Her daughter Rita (Davis) Watson continues the tradition that was begun by her grandmother (Lovie Brandon Ritter 1899-1936). Rita expresses herself through various media. She sews, paints, (you have to see her "Tennessee Barns" collection), draws, needlework, crochets. She is a floral designer. Rita has promoted the arts through her participation as 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) and participated in Creative Expressions craft shop (Abilene TX). She is a charter member of the Macon County Arts Council and served on the steering committee to help establish the council's bylaws, policies and procedures. Finally, Rita is the business manager for Ritter Farm, Grandpa's House, Watson Woodworks and other family business interests.
We also carry the works of local craftsmen, singers and writers.
More than just a Craft Shop
Grandpa’s House is also a mini-museum. Its focus is 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.
This was one our favorite places as kids, we hope you will enjoy your time at Grandpa’s House!
Grandpa's House
2217 Oak Grove Road
Red Boiling Springs
Tennessee 37150
Fifth Generation learning in Grandpa Dewey's blacksmith shop.
We love for folks to stop by and visit at Grandpa's House. We were surprised one Sunday afternoon last fall by a visit from the granddaughter of the original builder of Grandpa's House -- James Harvey Russell.
ABOVE: Left to right: Sarah Alice, James Harvey and Carlos Cullen Russell; Aunt Martha and Uncle Bate. RIGHT: Rita with our guests from Texas.
