Enjoying Model Trains

Model trains have an appeal that is quite hard to finger. The reasons why people enjoy them will be different with each person you ask.

When you see an actual, full-size train in operation, it leaves a larger than life impression on you. If you don’t live near tracks, seeing a moving train is always a little like seeing one for the first time. Chances are, you have forgotten a bit of the experience the last time you saw one. When it passes by, you realize (again) how big they are. You cannot help but be awed by their magnitude.

Having the ability to recreate this experience, but on a scale and timeline you can control, is part of the appeal of model trains. Some also may find enjoyment in building their own little universe. Creating specific details of scenery or constructing buildings also has an attraction.

Some modelers like to show off their sense of humor with their layouts, albeit it may be a bit dry for most folks. For instance, freight cars and even locomotives are painted with funny road names like the Run Fast & Push, or the Cheap & Nothing Wasted, and even the Redneck, Hayseed & Hicks. Some can be based on actual letters of fallen flags (like the RF&P and the CN&W) or can be completely original.

Perhaps the most famous of these names is also the most famous model train layout of all time- John Allen’s Gorre & Daphetid. Yes, that reads “gory” and “defeated.” This layout was the standard for all others. Built by John Allen in Monterey, California, this HO-scale layout had more than 100 unique bridges, working water wheels, and canyons between huge mountains. This layout modeled both standard and narrow gauges, and even had a working trolley line that utilized a live wire over the tracks. Tragically, it burned down with his house in 1972, just weeks after his death. However, it was subsequently rebuilt as close as possible, because some movies of the layout in operation were discovered.  

For others, the main attraction is seeing one’s favorite type of engine in action, or completing tasks just like an actual railroad. Call it “Fantasy Railroading” if you will. The call of the rails is not unlike the call of the sea. Adventure and exploration lies in the high line, and there is a challenge of controlling and delivering tons and tons of freight safely, even if it is 1/87th or 1/160th actual size.

Regardless of the reasons, model trains offer some way for you to create or re-create some aspect of real life. Modelers have dozens of choices in front of them. Apartment dwellers can build a switching layout in HO scale, go somewhat more expansive layout-wise in N scale, or build a large layout in Z scale. Home dwellers do not have to settle for smaller scales. They can build comfortably in HO scale or O scale, and develop the layout as much as their basement will allow.

They can take their layout up a notch, and enjoy the fastest growing aspect of the hobby- G scale (or LGB scale) outdoor garden railways. These take the hobby to new levels, as the modeler has to contend with all aspects of railroad maintenance AND the weather.

Modular railroading is popular way to join with others to create a layout. This is how model railroad clubs usually operate. One, two or several members contribute to a working section that can be assembled with modular sets to create one large layout. Often, these individual modules may be of a distinct period in time, display distinct geography, or have a special theme. Modular layouts are built to travel, so clubs can show their display at train shows, malls, museums, or other public displays.

When you discover the joys of model railroading, you will experience the “thrill of arrival” as your consist either roars past you or crawls into the station at a realistic scale speed. Take in the color, the sight, and in some cases, the sound.

Once the bug is caught, there is no going back. You railroad will be in a constant state of “improvement,” and the project will be unending.