The Park That Grew Up With Huntington: The Story of Ritter Park
The Park That Grew Up With Huntington: The Story of Ritter Park  
Podcast: Tri State Time Machine
Published On: Thu Aug 13 2026
Description: Did you know Huntington’s beloved Ritter Park almost became the site of a municipal garbage incinerator? I uncover how visionaries, community spirit, and thoughtful design shaped one of West Virginia’s most cherished green spaces.Whether your memories of the park involve family picnics, prom pictures, weddings, or just a quiet walk among the roses, this week’s episode uncovers the incredible story behind the green heart of Huntington.Episode Highlights:Discover how Ritter Park nearly became a garbage incinerator site instead of Huntington’s favorite gathering place 04:03.Meet the visionaries: From Rufus Switzer, who dreamed of green spaces while others thought of industry, to Charles Lloyd Ritter, whose generosity changed the city’s path 05:04, and landscape architect Gus Wofford, whose careful designs define the park’s natural beauty today 09:38.Learn how the Works Progress Administration’s handcrafted stonework and bridges still stand as a testament to craftsmanship and community pride 10:22.Explore the history of the iconic Rose Garden, including the dedication of Truman Watts, who restored it to regional fame 13:33.Uncover hidden corners of the park, from the vanished Lake Kapuskonwee to the story of the DAR Cabin, and reflect on how each element came to be a part of Huntington’s story 14:12.A Thought to Take With You:Next time you stroll through Ritter Park, look closer. Each stone, tree, and path holds a piece of our shared history—crafted by hands and hearts who believed Huntington deserved a gathering place as remarkable as its people.If you have a memory you would want me to talk more about, just send me an email at TSTM@mail.com. Or post a comment on the Tri-State Machine FB Group page.Welcome to the Tri-State Time Machine.I'm your host Vanessa Hankins. This is a podcast where my guests and I share our memories and present day stories of the Tri-State Area. That's West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio. Nothing too serious, no political views, and no ulterior motives. We're just here to share our fun stories about this great area.Whether you're a past resident or a current Tri-State resident, I think you're going to have fun with us.So join in, press play on your podcast player, and welcome to the Tri-State Time Machine! https://ts-time-machine.captivate.fm/episode/ritter-parkCopyright 2026 Vanessa Hankinshttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/