Michal J. Riley, who led the state’s motor transport industry for 30 years, will be joining seven other trustees on the board of the Railroad Museum Of New England (RMNE), an all-volunteer non-profit organization.  The RMNE is based at the historic, Thomaston Train Station built by the original Naugatuck Railroad in 1881.

“I love history, transportation, and our community.  The RMNE is dedicated to all three.  I am pleased to share my experience and knowledge to improve the RMNE so that it can better meet its educational and historical mission” , Riley said.

RMNE president Steve Casey nominated Mr. Riley adding that, “Mike will be wearing a new hat, that of an engineer’s, and blowing a new horn, that of a locomotive’s.  Mike Riley is a brilliant person who brings his operational insight and broad contacts to the benefit of the museum. He has a great reputation in town and across the state.”

One of the active RMNE members, Steve Butterworth, stated that “Identifying Mike Riley appears to be a huge step in finding a candidate who is new to RMNE, and experienced in “large picture” matters.  We are both excited by the prospect of his advice and assistance in bringing the operation of RMNE to a higher level of professionalism and contact with regional and State museums, the public, and potential donors.”

During his distinguished 29 year career, Mr. Riley successfully engaged in legislative initiatives in the areas of taxation, workers compensation, safety, business regulation and labor law.  A creative problem solver, he is a respected advocate with an impeccable reputation for hard work, honesty and accomplishment.

Mr. Riley is married to Kathleen Martin Riley.  They have 5 children.  He is a 36-year Thomaston resident. 

Along with Casey of Bristol, Mr. Riley will serve as trustee with Howard Pincus of White Plains, NY, Kristin Mosimann of Thomaston, Bill Sample of Plantsville, CT, Bob Eberheim of Cos Cob, John Gamm of Glastonbury, and Rich Malley of Simsbury.  His term runs until August of 2019.

The Railroad Museum Of New England (RMNE) is a not-for-profit, all volunteer, educational and historical organization that dates back to January 1968. The mission of the RMNE is to tell the story of the region’s rich railroad heritage through our educational exhibits and operation of the Naugatuck Railroad.  The museum concept is more than artifacts, it’s also a story of the region and the development of society around the railroad. It is located at the landmark Thomaston Train Station. The RMNE owns and operates the Naugatuck Railroad.

From birthday parties to corporate events, contact the RMNE to find out how the Thomaston Station and the Naugatuck Railroad can offer you a unique experience.

More information about the Railroad Museum of New England can be found at: www.rmne.org.