Fred Fritz, Jr., a Fast President of the Arizona Cattle Growers Association, was born in Clifton July 8, 1895. He has spent his entire life in the cattle business, operating the XXX Ranch started by his father, on the Blue River in 1886.
The father, Fred Fritz, Sr., was one of the truly pioneering type, who drove stage for a time, spent some years in Old Mexico, and was in on the early days of Tombstone, Bisbee and other mining camps. It was while trapping beaver on the Blue that he selected that remote region for a ranch site.
Bringing his bride from Texas to Clifton in 1894. he maintained a part-time home in Clifton where young Fred had his schooling.
The father died on the ranch in 1916 and was buried there. Fred Jr. then took over the outfit, gradually buying the interests of the other heirs until he now owns it alone.
Fred Jr. served in World War I and. back on the ranch, soon became well known and respected for his intelligence and business ability.
This resulted in his serving in the State Legislature for 14 years. He has the rare distinction of having been both Speaker of the House and President of the Senate.
With cattle as his first and greatest love, Fred helped organize the Greenlee County Cattle Growers and served as its Secretary and three times as President.
Likewise prominent in state and national livestock affairs, he served on many committees and was President of the State Association in 1946 and 1947. Also, since his range is adjacent to the New Mexico boundary, he attends most of the meetings of the cattlemen of that state.
In 1924 Fred Fritz, Jr., married Kathleen Anderson. They maintain a home in Clifton as does his mother, who is still active at 81.