Both Tim and Sherrie have long been interested in model trains and collected HO and N equipment (Tim also has a collection of fire apparatus models). In 1994, we began an N scale model railroad, a 2-1/2 x 4 foot loop. In 1997 we expanded to 14 feet. This lasted until late 2001, when we changed to a 2x4 foot loop in anticipation of moving. This loop is designed for expansion.

The SP&TV is loosely based on the Kalamazoo and South Haven Railroad, which ran between its namesake cities in Michigan. Built in 1870, it later became part of the Michigan Central and then the New York Central. The line was abandoned in 1970, shortly after the Penn Central merger. It is now the Kal-Haven Trail Sesquicentennial State Park.

In our scenario, when Penn Central abandoned the line, a local shipper's group purchased it. This was a fairly common response throughout the midwest to such proposed abandonments. The initial intent of the shipper's group was to save rail freight service, but they also found that rapidly increasing tourism in the area offered an opportunity for excursion trains.

The layout has two industries, based on those of the "sunset coast" area: a berry and fruit processor (jelly, jam, packaged food, and juices) and a grain elevator. We also have a "doodlebug" and coaches for excursions (and maybe a dinner train). In the future, we are thinking of expanding this layout. If that happens, we'd like to include a sand mine, a small rail museum, and perhaps a car ferry.

N scale track plan

Names and the rest of that Michigan map

Station List

Modeling Tips: Snapware and a Visit to the Craft Store

Model Railroad Movie

The Prelinger Archive has a vast collection of movies, mostly advertising and historical newsreels that I use in my classes. Among the historical films is one titled "Model Railroad." There's no date, but it credits Celluloid College and Westchester Model Club of New York.

The sound track is ahead of the pictures in a few places. The movie runs 8:33 and can be viewed on-line or downloaded. It's in the public domain, so feel free to copy and share it.

Associate Member, Teen Association of Model Railroaders.

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