Cliff Rier: Celebrated Volunteer of the Month by Peri Hayes
Cliff Rier graciously welcomes me onto Car 14 at the Elgin County Railway Museum to discuss his ongoing volunteer work at this esteemed establishment. This particular passenger car was once part of the London and Port Stanley Railway (L&PS), to which Cliff asserts, “We have tried to restore it to be as aesthetically correct as we can.” Car 14 was built in 1917, last operating in 1956. Cliff regards this train with reversible seats as ahead of its time, notably having the ability to drive forward and backward. Alongside approximately a dozen volunteers, Cliff himself has been working on the detailed restoration of this car for the previous six years. “There was a lot of support,” he expresses with gratitude. Residing in St. Thomas for eight years and counting, Cliff reveals what inspired his involvement: “My hobby is woodworking, and this was a logical fit.” Asked what fulfills him in this pursuit, Cliff replies, “The camaraderie; working and joking with the other volunteers is what brings us back.” The restoration of this train, which Cliff has proudly spent abundant hours on, is his personal highlight: “It is nice to see Car 14 come to completion.” The train was deteriorating when this project was undertaken approximately 20 years, with many individuals contributing during this time. Cliff names a few significant involvements: Dennis Biggs completed the trim work; Ray Clarke is responsible for restoring the existing interior stained glass; Ray Evans sandblasted and painted the seat frames; and the late George McNally rebuilt the exterior stained glass windows. As well, a family generously placed a donation toward this process. Excitedly, Cliff shares that the first wedding is scheduled to be celebrated on the captivating Car 14. To conclude, Cliff describes what he believes to be the benefits of volunteering: “It is rewarding in that you accomplish something that you enjoy, and you get to work with and meet a lot of other nice people.” He intends to participate in further projects moving forward. Cliff also emphasizes the ways in which there are various volunteer opportunities at the Elgin
County Railway Museum. Visit the following link to submit an application: ecrm.ca/volunteer. Additionally, those with inquiries are welcome to call 519- 637-6284. Cliff recognizes the extraordinary efforts of Rose, Will and the Board of Directors in maintaining the Elgin County Railway Museum, as he warmly encourages, “Come out and see our museum and Car 14, one of the many cars to see!” Trust the professionals for all your moving needs! REEMAN THE MOVER LTD.
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • September 2024 Page 11
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