History of the 4th Division Modular Program

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Prologue

The local idea of modules and the project later named "Modulars" was credited to Roger Ferris when he was 4D Superintendent. At that time, some module groups existed such as N-TRAK; however, they were confined to a single scale. Most portable layouts were in reality sectional layouts because they were always hooked up the same way, the same people participated, and no one else could connect with them. Meanwhile the 4D had many clinics and a whole lot of passive armchair members. The idea was to create something that would get more of them actually modeling.

The 4D made good money from the PSC show each year and it all seemed to get used up, but there were no tangible results to show for all the thousands of dollars spent except memories of clinics and conventions.

Roger Ferris, then superintendent, developed the Modulars Plan that would allow any member to sign up for one or two modules for free by signing a contract. The reasoning behind this was visibility and accountability for the free modules as well as providing a resource of layouts for public display at area shows. The terms were:

1. Have a developed plan for completing the module(s) in 90 days.
2. Have the mainline down in the same 90 days.
3. Display the module at two clinics in the first year describing the methods being used to construct it.
4. Placing the module(s) in at least two "hookups" with others in the first year.
5. The most unique feature, however, was that a module table recipient could build in any scale they chose.

Using the specs of the Canadian Alouette group, the 4D, and others, the NMRA developed NMRA Module Standards and Recommended Practices. The original kits included the frame, set of leg brackets, four elevator bolts, tee nuts, barrier strips and color-coded #14 gauge wire for trunk feeders. Backboards for sky were made with a tongue to slip into the frame and were part of the kit along with legs. Leg brackets were made by Western Fabricating (owned by NMRA member Tom Sparacio who later owned Everett Hobbycraft) to strengthen the corners of the module. In later builds the whole setup was sold as a kit.

All trunk wires used barrier strip terminals at each end of the module. Standard plugs were wired and the appropriate free end equipped with spade connectors to be placed under the barrier strip screws. This system provided easy circuit checks and changing of wires to the appropriate terminal if the builder made nay mistakes.

When there were four straight modules, the 4D would build a set of corners. The 4D would always own corner modules so that any no-show could not prevent a complete operating setup. They were built so that they could be carried in "bundles" of four with wheels for ease of entry to show venues. Three corners were sceniced, but the 4th corner was left blank so information leaflets could be distributed.

In the first and second builds clear finish quality lumber was used. Corners were mitered and braced with dadoed blocks of plywood. All fasteners were "blind", that is not visible to the view side. The intent was to produce a quality looking "cabinet" piece of furniture that could not be out of place in a living room. All of the legs were bull nosed to prevent the inherent splintering of fir lumber.

Module History Chairs:

1. Roger Ferris (either at the same time or right after his terms as FD Supt)
2. Jeff Moorman
3. Ray Richards
4. Dan Peters
5. George Chapman
6. Ross Tabor, (1st HO specific chairman)
7. Bob Beise(1996-1998)
8. Norm Curtis (1996-present)

Modular History Timeline

Mission Statement

Promote participation, sharing, railroad history, and the NMRA/4 Div.
Entertain and inform people about the hobby.
Help charities, community organizations, and other railroad groups.