Rittman's history enriches its attraction where industries come to flourish and families come to settle. The first settlers, in what now is Rittman, were William Doyle and John Coleman who took title to land on July 23, 1814. Records indicate that eight families purchased land in the northeastern part of newly formed Wayne County within a month of their neighbors. It is likely they traveled the sa
me trails and arrived close together. These families sold portions of their land to others, and within a year other families were clearing trees, planting crops and beginning the history of Rittman, Ohio. A Legacy of Industry and Natural Resources
Known for its legacy of industry, Rittman has maintained its reputation in burgeoning opportunities for those businesses and entrepreneurs to succeed in today's economy. Several of Rittman's most successful enterprises include Morton Salt (1898), Imperial Plastics (1960), PFI Displays (1975), Swiss Woodcraft (1981), Mull Iron (1983), Luke Engineering and Manufacturing (1993), Unilock (1999). Agriculture is also big business in the Rittman area which Bauman Orchards (1928) owes much of its success. Wayne County rated near the top in Ohio in dollar value of crops produced. The area is well endowed with a balance of these items necessary to encourage an ever-expanding economy. A Quality Place to Live
According to the 2010 Census the population of Rittman is 6,491 with 2,547 households. Within an hour's drive of Cleveland and even closer to Akron, Canton, Massillon and Wooster, Rittman's economy benefits from its proximity to these and major Midwest markets. Its residents also benefit from the amenities of these larger communities while choosing to live in a more country like atmosphere. In addition, residents of Rittman can take advantage of the Post Office and Rittman Library, a branch of Wayne County Public Library, located downtown. Residents can select from a full range of housing opportunities in Rittman, from newer developments to classic households located further in the downtown area. In keeping with Rittman's cultural diversity, subsidized dwellings are available as well as senior residency such as Autumnwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Residents are also afforded the benefit of an excellent school system of an elementary school, a middle school and a high school. Vocation and career education programs are offered in the local high school and at the Wayne County Schools Career Center just 15 minutes from Rittman. Students may also participate in a wide range of co-curricular activities, including interscholastic athletics. In 2005, the voters of Rittman approved a bond issue which provided for approximately $21 million in new school construction with additions at the High School, West Hill Elementary and North Street Schools to compliment the existing facilities. There are many opportunities for advanced education at the Wayne General and Technical College, the College of Wooster, University of Akron, Kent State University, the Ohio State University Agricultural College Branch in Wooster. The Wayne County Schools Career Center also offers a complete education program.
