page 2   THE ORIGINAL INTENT WAS PICK FEW BRAINS

So my original intention was to talk to a few vendors, pick their brains on do’s and the dont’s. And why that car was worth so much more than that over there. I know the make and model has a lot to do with the prices but what else I asked him. The more electronics that are built inside each train engine, that what makes or breaks a price, and of coerce the manufacturer.

Walking up and down all the isles I noticed how excited everybody was. The energy you could cut with a knife.   I don’t think it had anything to do with that spring is around the corner, or, even because it was a nice day outside. It was the excitement, the fun of the model trains and all the people that are here felt it.

Reader wrote … Well, if one is going to partake of the model railroading hobby they have to collect cars; otherwise, there would be no trains to run on the railroad….it’s almost like asking a fisherman why he buys lures.

Did you know you can buy any and all parts and pieces for this setup? Everything your little heart desires, everything but, imagination, (that you have to bring).

Nothing that you couldn’t imagine, nothing you couldn’t purchase/ buy to make these train set up as real as the big ones outside. You can buy or make your own CN Rail decals, Canadian Pacific Railway Decals”. All hallmark decals for every railroad in the world. And the best part, you put your blood sweat and tears into it.

“I put that together”. And they have every right to bragging rights.

I round my last corner and then I’m outa here. This fella comes over and said, “you look like the type a guy that should be going to this upcoming spring train show”.

For another 5 bucks, this club arranged a spring tour of 20 different model train sites around the region, where people are proudly displaying their working setups. Only once a year they open up their homes, basement, garages and storage units to show off their hard work to fellow enthusiasts and the, of course, the general public that just want to have a good day’s adventure.

Just maybe get you hooked on the wonderful world of model train building.

The show date is coming up and I haven’t gone yet, but again what’s not to like. 5 bucks get you a map on where to go on the tour.

Don Z. commented …..  Well, if one is going to partake of the model railroading hobby they have to collect CARS; otherwise, there would be no trains to run on the railroad….it’s almost like asking a fisherman why he buys lures.

Did you know that every small building, cars, telephone poles, and hydro lines are strategically placed? A lot of thought and planning goes into these working set-ups.  I would normally say, that’s a lot of work that goes into these train displays.

But it does not work, it’s an enjoyable hobby. Yes lots of hours, but all pure fun and totally worth it in the end.  If parents want to bond with their kids and family, this sure is one good way to do it.

Five bucks, 5 bucks, 5 bucks

So as my exciting day comes to a close, I have to say that I was totally impressed by the amount of interest the model trains bring to the average hard working person. AS well as the attendance, model train clubs, and chapters is everywhere. Exhibits, shows, hobby shops that strictly sell model trains and memorabilia, I had no idea . . .  it was this big.

As always, my intent is to bring a little fun into collecting, in this case, I might have swayed a tad. But it could be classified as a darn good Hobby.

Please check out my other posting on MODEL TRAINS

Mister Beasley from Bedford Ma  USA     Commented ………. We are not “collectors.”  We don’t buy anything to put on a static display.  In fact, most of us immediately breaks all the rules of collecting.  First, we rip open the box and throw it away, usually with the instructions.  Then we take the car or locomotive apart to see what’s inside.  Then, we replace parts we don’t think are appropriate, add detail, change the electronics, put in different headlights and apply for a completely different paint job.  The end result, rather than a “collectors’ item” in mint condition, is even better – a unique piece of functional, dynamic model train rail art.