SUBJECT:
Title
Request Approval to Designate SE 142nd Court in Weirsdale in Honor of The Fritch Family
Body
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INITIATOR: |
DEPARTMENT: |
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Craig Curry, County Commissioner |
Commission Office |
DESCRIPTION/BACKGROUND:
Stuart Fritch moved to Weirsdale, Florida, from Pennsylvania in 1920 and became an influential figure in the town’s early development. A construction contractor, he built homes, citrus packing houses, and a notable stucco wall along East Highway 42 that remains a local landmark. Through relationships with winter residents, he became involved in citrus farming, helping plant over 200 acres of groves and establishing his family’s place in the industry.
Stuart and his wife, Elizabeth Knobloch, were active community members, contributing to the church, civic organizations, and wartime efforts during World War II. Over time, Weirsdale declined after highway relocation and loss of citrus groves. Today, their son Richard, the oldest surviving resident born in Weirsdale, still lives in the family home behind the wall his father built.
BUDGET/IMPACT:
None
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Recommended action
Motion to approve designating SE 142nd Court in honor of The Fritch Family.
end