Shore Line Trolley Museum Appoints Executive Director

From the Shore Line Trolley Museum: In a recent Board of Directors meeting, The Branford Electric Railway Association, also known as The Shore Line Trolley Museum, at 17 River St, East Haven, CT appointed John Proto of Hamden, CT as Executive Director to the organization.

“Having an Executive Director is a must in today’s non-profit world,” said Wayne Sandford, Association President. “I believe this is a major step forward for the museum.”

Peter Callahan, Board Chair, stated “The post Irene and Sandy period has been one of transition for us. The advent of a full time Executive Director is yet another important milestone in moving us toward a more sophisticated organization.” Callahan also noted, “We were fortunate to find within our own circle an individual with the professional talents needed to move us forward as our first Executive Director.”

Proto has been a member of the organization for the past 25 years and an active volunteer for most of that time. Proto became the Museum Manager in July 2016 and is looking forward to his expanded role. “This is a much different place than the one I joined many years ago. Through outstanding leadership, we were able to survive a major economic recession and two significant natural disasters. It is an honor to have been chosen to continue in this path. The museum is an historical testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of those who, over a century ago, created what is still considered to be one of the most effective forms of urban and suburban transportation. “

Proto added, “Through our growing membership, tirelessly dedicated volunteers and community and industry partners, I hope to continue the museum’s mission so that it can be enjoyed for many more generations.”

The Branford Electric Railway Association, founded in 1945, serves as the oldest continuously operated suburban street railway in the United States. The museum was entered into the Register of Historic Places in 1983. Museum volunteers offer tours of meticulously restored antique street railway cars and provide a multi-sensory visit with rides along approximately 1.5 miles of railway that first opened to the public on July 31, 1900. For more information on the museum or for volunteer or member opportunities, visit www.shorelinetrolley.org or call (203) 467-6927.

Photo courtesy of the Shore Line Trolley Museum