Fifty Years and Counting

 

While I know I've been in the model railroading hobby for quite a while, it was a surprise to receive a certificate documenting that fact. That would be mean that I joined the NMRA in 1971 which seems about right. Even though I had been reading model railroad magazines throughout my teen years, it wasn't until 1969 when I finally purchased my first car kit and actually moved out of the armchair. After a few kits, I thought it was a good idea to join the NMRA. It's been a fun time and, for me, just the start of more fun with the hobby.

I guess it is fitting that, after 50 years in the Association, it opened its Magic of Scale Model Railroading exhibit at the California State Railroad Museum (as though my tenure in the NMRA had anything to do with that). I found several photos on line showing some of the exhibits in the museum. https://www.flickr.com/photos/192373853@N06/sets/72157718547893733/. It looks like it's well worth a visit if you find yourself in California. I'm not sure when the CSRM will reopen but, hopefully, it will be soon. 

New Car Arrives on the S&C

C&A 13103 rests on a siding in Oakdale before going into regular service.

During my first operating session at the NMRA convention, I had to the opportunity to host Howard Garner as one of the operators. Many on the Early Rail list know him and his Cascade Western Railroad (and Cascade Western Laser). Howard is an excellent modeler and a very fine gentleman. A totally unexpected but very delightful part of his visit was the gift of a car he had scratchbuilt, the Chicago and Alton No. 13103. It was a car he used to get an Achievement Award toward his Master Model Railroader. The car is very fine with a complete underbody detail. Thank  you so very much, Howard. It is already in service on the railroad.

NMRA National Convention 2018

Two guest operators switch at Peters during one of the week's operating sessions.

Last week, the National Model Railroad Association held its annual convention in Kansas City and was attended by almost 1500 model railroaders. During the week, these brave folks were treated to clinics, layout tours, operating sessions, non-railroad tours and some just plain fun.
   

The Copperopolis passenger local briefly stops at Milton en route to Peters.

 Since the Kansas City area is home to the Stockton & Copperopolis, we had to participate in the excitement as well. We had two bus tours with about 140 people viewing the railroad. I gave two clinics twice each. One was on improving the performance of small steam engines and the other was on modeling the nineteenth century using the modern techniques we have available. Both were well attended.
   

A private car is dropped off on the house track at Farmington by No. 4. 

 The railroad was also open for two operating sessions during the week and for a special visit by members of the Layout Design Special Interest Group. Capping off the week was the National Train Show where one could visit and speak with many of the hobby's manufacturers. It was a hectic time for me but well worth it. Now it's time to get back to normal and continue building things.