37,802 Ritter members around the world
Stay informed about Ritter Family online & offline events!
See our recent family gatherings

Ritter Family History
Recorded in England as Rider and Ryder, and in Germany as Retter and Ritter, this is a surname of two possible meanings. The first is from the Anglo-Saxon and Germanic pre 7th century word "ridere", itself from ridan, meaning to ride, and as such an occupational surname given originally to a mounted warrior or 'cnit', the modern knight. In England after the Norman Conquest of 1066, and the introduction of the feudal system, rider or ryder described a messenger, whilst knight became a status name and described a landed tenant, one who was bound to serve his lord as a mounted soldier.Who have we missed?
Tell us about any famous Ritter (or surname variant) you think we should add here. We will get our genealogists to check them out and add them to the list. Thanks!
MEET
Join the conversation with the Ritter tribe
- Find your Ritter ancestor
- Tell us about your Ritter Family
- Tell us about your Ritter ancestors
- Ask a question about the Ritter history
- Leave a message for Ritter family members
I heard that my birth grandmother's name was Susan Ritter who lived in Indiana in the 1960's. I have no way of locating her but if her name rings a bell to any of you Ritter's out there I would love to hear from you!
Want to know more about Ritter
Invite more Ritter family members!
Write an email address and click 'Invite' to share this page with more members of the Ritter tribe.
Log in or Register to invite others
Family Coat of Arms Generator

Why not see what your family crest could look like based on your own family characteristics?
Create CrestSHOP
Show off the Ritter Family Crest…
Wear your crest with pride...plenty of products to choose from