"The original version of the family name was Ochsenreither which is German for ox or oxen rider. The name is believed to have originated in Southern Germany around the 11th or 12th century when last names came into being. Prussia was being settled about that time by pioneers clearing the land. The German word for clearing or cutting trees is Reuter and since the main beast of burden was the Ochsen (oxen) the area became known as Ochsenreuter. There was a village in this area called Ochsenreute. Today, this area is known as Baldwaldsee." (1)

The family name evolved over the years to its current anglicized form of Oxrider. The Oxrider family name can be traced back to Johann Jacob Ochsenreiter who emigrated to the United States in 1753. (2)


Johann Jacob Ochsenreiter & Anna Barbara Kraemer
 (Andrew) Johann Andreas Ochsenreiter & Rachel Miller
    John Ochsenreiter & Sarah "Sallie" Haas
      Johannes Ochsenreiter & Anna Maria Batdorf
         Persiwell Oxrider & Catherine "Katie" Kling
            Harry Kling Oxrider & Ellen Cruise
               Harry K. Oxrider, Jr. & Joanne Osterday
                 Harry K. Oxrider, III & Michelle L. McCormick
                   Patrick James Oxrider
                   Kevin Joseph Oxrider
                   Ryan John McCormick Oxrider 

1 & 2 - Robert G. Oxenger, "Ochsenreiter Family, The Descendants of Joh. Jacob Ochsenreiter," June 2000, pp 180.

In 3rd grade the boys had to make "heritage dolls" -- so they made the Oxen Rider off of the family crest (above).   Kevin (& Ryan) are at the left with his doll, and Patrick is below with his.  Notice that Patrick is even wearing a shirt with the crest on it!

>> Under Construction! <<   Picture below is of the McCormick's on 7.4.05.