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The Frontenac Society of
Model Engineers Inc.
The Frontenac Society of Model Engineers Inc. (FSME) is a society whose members have a common interest in Model Engineering. There is an evening club meeting once a month where members discuss progress with their models; videos and slides pertinent to the hobby are shown and guest speakers, (occasionally) talk about related subjects.
Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month at the Ongwanada Resource Centre, 191 Portsmouth Avenue, Kingston, at 7:30 p.m.
The club has 100 feet of portable track (with anti tip railing) that is can be set up at local shows, to give rides to the public. The club also owns a 3.5 inch gauge Hudson Locomotive (that is currently undergoing restoration by the society) for members use, and demonstration to the public. The group is now in the process of planning a track site a short distance from Kingston. There will be a 7 1/4in. gauge ground level track as well as, at least a 3 1/2in.gauge elevated track
We have a growing membership and everyone with an interest in Model Engineering is welcome to join us, membership in the society is a modest cost per year.
The Society welcomes prospective new members who are either existing model engineers or have an interest, and wish to take up the hobby. For more information please contact Dave D’Albertanson , by email at dave_dalbertanson@hotmail.com , or make your self known to a Society member.
The Society was for many years associated with the Pump House Steam Museum in Kingston. Pump House Steam Museum. There is a long history of this association, with the Society being the key driving force in the restoration of the Museum more than 30 years ago.
Although no charge is made by the Society (other than membership costs) for the use of its facilities (drawings, reference material, hand tools, track, etc.), this is a non-profit society so all donations are gratefully received and go towards maintenance and improvements
Model Engineering by Definition
Model Engineering is a fascinating hobby open to men and women of all ages. Its main function is to foster an appreciation and continue the knowledge of machinery, transport and equipment, from the industrial revolution to the present day (and even beyond). This is achieved, by recreating in miniature, working (or non-working) models of any kind of machinery or transport item that takes your fancy, be it steam powered, internal combustion or the like. Many other industrial and transport items are included: marine applications, stationary engines, traction and other road vehicles to name just a few.
Another generally accepted definition of a Model Engineer is that it is someone who designs and or builds working scale models of engines or equipment. Model Engineering usually involves the craft of Home Machining. Normally metal is the primary material used to make a model, but other materials such as wood, glass, leather, cloth and plastic are often used as necessary.
A model of a steam engine or internal combustion engine will actually operate just as the original full sized prototype operated. Most models produced by Model Engineers are based on real life engines and machinery. A tremendous amount of planning and work goes into getting these models to look and operate just as the real one does.
Experimental engineering is also encouraged., Model engineers are often lending help, support and guidance, encouraging the younger members of our community to become involved and gain a sense of achievement and fellowship
Model Engineers often develop their own designs. These designs are usually based on established principles, but include modifications and ideas developed by the modeler. Model Engineering magazines and books are filled with articles showing designs developed by modelers.
Model Engineers build a wide range of models, in a variety of styles. One method is the art of Scratch Building. Another approach is that of building from a Casting Kit purchased from a vendor or another modeler. Then there is the process where the Model Engineer develops patterns, makes castings from the patterns, and finally machines the castings to create the finished model.
Model engineering appeals to all age groups and all sections of the community. Being a member of a model engineering society gives you the opportunity to participate as a member of a close fraternity that is keen to assist anyone as required.
Because of the wide range of activities covered by Model Engineering, no one definition can cover them all. Essentially it is the construction of scale model traction engines, stationary engines, locomotives, and machinery in home workshops.
This page last updated Dec 13 2009
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