For majority of the Boothbay Railway Village’s history and for almost all of its years as a 501(c)3 nonprofit, the staff has been led by one incredibly dedicated man, Bob Ryan. Bob’s tenure as executive director started 31 ago in the winter of 1984.

He oversaw the most dynamic and exciting changes the museum has seen in its nearly 50 years including the construction of the current Antique Auto Exhibit, the relocation and restoration of the Boothbay Town Hall and Spruce Point Chapel, and even the first arrival of Thomas to Boothbay.

The village shares its offices with a sister museum, The Grand Banks Schooner Museum. Also serving this museum as executive director, his responsibilities include managing the maintenance and operations of the F/V Sherman Zwicker and Ram Island Lighthouse.

Ryan recently notified the museum’s board of directors of his intention to retire at the end of this calendar year. He’s planning to spend more time with his family, this decision being heavily influenced by the recent arrival of his second grandchild. He promised the museum board and staff to continue to support the museum for as long as they can keep him busy.

The year 2014 is shaping up to be a remarkable one for the Boothbay Railway Village filled with excitement, celebrations and reflections. When you stop in to visit, be sure to look for Ryan to be driving one of the museum’s Model Ts and wish him good luck as he makes plans for his life after the museum.

The Boothbay Railway Village is located at 586 Wiscasset Road, Route 27 in Boothbay.