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A Legacy of Precision
The Riehle Machine Company (RMC), commonly referred to by family members as “the Shop,” was founded in 1926 by Albert J. Riehle and operated at 6207 Wooster Pike in Cincinnati, OH for more than five (5) decades.
Having successfully sold his automobile dealership, Albert was enjoying “roaring twenties” prosperity when he founded his machine shop. He had at an early age established competence working with metal and machines and began the business perhaps as much to pursue his hobby as to build a generation-spanning business. It quickly transformed into a more serious endeavor however with the stock market crash of 1929, followed by the onset of the Great Depression as it reshaped the American economy.
RMS office secretary for several decades
Like most small businesses, the RMC weathered difficult years in the 1930s, gradually finding its footing amid widespread economic uncertainty.
visiting granddaughters Cathy and Nancy Riehle looking on
Greater opportunity came with the onset of World War II, which brought a surge in demand for precision machining and the associated technical expertise. Joseph E. Riehle, Albert’s son, joined the company after graduating from high school in 1936. His hands-on experience at RMC led to a wartime role at MIT’s Radiation Laboratory (the “Rad Lab”), a hub of innovation for radar technology. Following this and a period of service in the Army Air Force, Joe had returned to the family business by 1948.
After Albert’s passing in 1952, Joe assumed leadership of RMC with the help of his brother Bert, other family members, and some truly dedicated employees. Under Joe’s stewardship, the Shop continued to operate as a trusted name in the Cincinnati area for three more decades.
Working at the RMC for his father
In about 1981, the Riehle Machine Company was sold and soon after, liquidated. Joe remained briefly to support the transition before retiring. Yet the spirit of craftsmanship and innovation did not end with the sale. Soon after, Joe’s son, William J. “Bill” Riehle, founded Blue Chip Tool, a business inspired by the same principles that guided RMC. Today, Blue Chip Tool remains active under the guidance of Bill’s son Bill (William F. Riehle), marking four generations of custom engineering excellence and family tradition.
From humble beginnings in a small machine shop to a lasting legacy carried forward by new generations, the story of the Riehle Machine Company is one of resilience, innovation, and enduring craftsmanship.
Our thanks to James Riehle for photos!
Jim’s Riehle ancestry is Joe / Albert / Francis / Clemens / More
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