Nancy P. Ried, one of the South Coast Railroad Museum’s most dedicated friends and champions, passed away on October 9, 2009. Nancy played a significant role in the early days of the Goleta Depot Project, working tirelessly to help preserve this historic landmark. Alongside her husband, Walt, she was one of the first to join the “Friends of Goleta Depot,” the group that eventually evolved into the museum’s membership program. Her commitment and spirit set a foundation for what the museum has become today.
Nancy’s devotion was most evident during the legendary night of November 19, 1981, when the Goleta Depot was moved from its original location on Kellogg Avenue to its new home at Lake Los Carneros Park. Nancy was one of the few who walked the entire route, escorting the depot through the dark hours of early morning. Just hours after the depot’s arrival, she was back at the trackside site, working alongside fellow committee members Gene Allen and Mary Lou Williamson, salvaging bricks from the depot’s original foundation to be used in a fundraising effort. This was just one of many hands-on contributions she made to preserve the depot.
In addition to her role in the physical relocation of the depot, Nancy was a vital force in the museum’s fundraising efforts. She and Mary Lou Williamson, through their partnership in N&M Catering, organized numerous fundraisers, including the memorable “Depot Surprise Trip” event in 1982. Nancy’s dedication was recognized in 1984, when she received the “Golden Deed Award,” Goleta’s highest honor for community service, for her many contributions to the Goleta Depot Project. Her involvement grew even further when she joined the Goleta Depot Committee in 1983.
Nancy’s contributions extended beyond fundraising. As one of the museum’s first docent volunteers, she guided tours of the Goleta Depot, sharing her passion for the depot’s history with visitors. She played a crucial role in organizing many early museum events, including the 1982 dedication ceremony, the 1984 Depot Friends dinner, and the 1985 “Last Spike Ceremony.” Her work on the museum’s Spring Fundraiser, known in its early years as the “Asphalt Regatta,” helped make it one of the museum’s most successful fundraising events.
Despite health challenges in later years, Nancy and Walt continued to support the museum as active members and advocates. Her energy, humor, and inventiveness left an indelible mark on the museum and the Goleta Depot Project. Nancy’s presence brought vitality, camaraderie, and joy to every effort she was a part of.
There will never be another like Nancy Ried, and her legacy remains deeply woven into the history of the South Coast Railroad Museum and the Goleta Depot. She is dearly missed by all who had the honor to know her.