Clubs and Club Visits

There are two things that, in my opinion, have made model railroading as big as it is today. One is the internet. Between personal blogs and forums and online magazines, sharing ideas and products has never been easier. It is astounding to see people from across the planet coming together to talk about their hobby and ways to enjoy it more.

But for me the most important thing is the model train club. Before the internet had even been thought of, people gathered together to build massive modular traveling layouts or detailed permanent concepts that are amazing and a true sight to behold. Clubs keep hobbyists talking and thinking, with different viewpoints and interesting experiences (younger folks will recognize this as a "real-life forum).  Recently I had the opportunity to visit a few.

First is a layout that is a part of the San Jacinto NMRA club. The Almeda Terminal & Gulf is a point to point permanent layout that focuses on operations with detailed structures and stock. It is a beautiful and fun layout, and the owner is quite nice and helpful.  Click the links for more info. I got to see the AT&G on the annual open house tour, and even got to run a local switcher!  It was a total blast!

The AT&G loco facilities.  I got to operate the pair closest to the camera.

Second is an old club I was a member of a few years back. While I was in college I finally came into my modeling. I built a few small N scale layouts I could hide under my bed in the dorm and tried some simple weathering, but I never got very far. Two years before I graduated I found a flyer at a local hobby store for the Bryan/College Station Model Railroad Society. I went to visit the layout and was hooked. After being accepted as a member, I converted back to HO and started going to the regular meetings. Not only were these some of the best people I have ever met, they opened my eyes as to what there really is in the world of model railroading. They gave me insight and guidance, and if they didn’t know something, they could get me in touch with people who do.  I owe these guys a lot and if you get a chance to go visit, it will be well worth your time! 

Next up is a few pictures of my SRR locos on their visit to the BCSMRRS layout, the Gulf, Texas, and Western. This visit is what I was working so hard for in October. It went well and it is always fun hanging out with old friends.

Lastly is a shot of beautiful SP Daylight GS-4 (owned by another club member) and my modern day TRE commuter loco.  It was too good to pass up!

 

So get out and look for a model railroad club in your area!  Google searches and the NMRA guides are a good way to look.  Not only will you learn a lot more than going it alone, it is always a great time to hang out with others who like the same things as you!