Velte, Paul Christian Jr., (1914-1976), was CEO of Air America, a large airline owned by the Central Intelligence Agency flying primarily in Southeast Asia from the 1950s until 1975; used Air America Huey helicopters to help with evacuation of Saigon in April 1975, rescuing more than 1,000 Americans and Vietnamese; Ridgefield resident 1955 until death, was active in Ridgebury Congregational Church and Boy Scouts.
From Jack Sanders, Who Was Who in Ridgefield.
Our collaborative community history project has received national recognition for bringing long-overlooked voices into Ridgefield’s historical record and expanding how local history is preserved, shared, and understood.
This year’s scholarship honors a student whose academic achievement and community involvement reflect the values at the heart of local history work.
This new book shares LGBTQIA+ experiences of Ridgefield through personal stories gathered during our community oral history project, preserving voices and perspectives that will broaden the understanding of the town’s
A hands-on volunteer group is helping preserve the beauty and character of the outdoor spaces that surround some of Ridgefield’s most distinctive historic and architectural landmarks.