Ritchie's Appliance has background of family commitment

From Staff Reports

   Ritchie's, Inc. has been part of the Elizabethton community since around 1934 when Ralph X. Ritchie sold generators and radios door-to-door. Now, Ritchie's still takes a personal approach to doing business, working individually with customers to extend credit and offer a variety of payment options.
   In 1936, Ritchie became the area's first authorized General Electric dealer and opened a store selling appliances and furniture with his wife, Mary. During Mr. Ritchie's tour of duty with the U.S. Army during World War II, Mary ran the store, selling furniture and creating waiting lists for scarce appliances.
   Mr. Ritchie maintained an active role in the business until just before his death in 1993. Mrs. Ritchie, now retired, still assists in operating the business, which is now managed by her daughter and son-in-law, Stan and Margaret Anne Bentley.
   Ritchie's offers solid value and all customers receive the same personal courtesy and attention.
   With the third generation of the Ritchie family continuing the business, Ritchie's hopes to be successful in Elizabethton for years to come.
   Ritchie's Appliance is located at 519 E. Elk Ave. For more information, call 542-4177.