..... On February 18th, 1843 Ritchie County was formed and named in honor of Thomas Ritchie, a Richmond, Virginia journalist, who referred to it as "my little gem". Today, no matter where you ramble in the county, the tales of wild cat oil boom days, fortunes made in timber, and family legends that reach as far back as the Civil War remain. Patriotism runs strong in small town rural America, and always has. A tribute to Ritchie County's men and women who served in the armed forces can be found along the rail trail in Cairo. The 16-foot monument features bronze plaques commemorating the dedication and service of local veterans. The monument itself is an extra panel intended for use in constructing the Hughes River Dam.