I am frequently asked, “What is an RPM?” Basically, it’s a gathering of railroad modelers who enjoy modeling the prototype and sharing their knowledge and techniques. The RPM acronym is for Railroad Prototype Modelers.
The gatherings can vary in size and scope. I’ve attended a couple of small, informal RPM events with about 25 people. Many events have attracted between 150 and 350 modelers for a couple days of presentations. The large St. Louis RPM has been edging towards 1000 attendees.
RPM meets are popping up all over the USA and Canada. I keep an RPM Calendar as a resource page on this blog for modelers to make plans through the year.
I’ve made some great friends at these events and I soak up lots of ideas each time I attend. I’ve become a better modeler because I’ve participated in these prototype modeling events. The time I spend reviewing find efforts in the model display room, attending presentations, and discussing ideas with other modelers has pushed many projects along. I often return home with my hobby energy recharged and ready to tackle something new.
I recently participated in a round table discussion on the NERx video convention. I was with Michelle Kempema, Executive Director at the Colorado Model Railroad Museum, and Dave Owens of the Northeast Railroad Prototype Modelers meet. It’s an intro to RPM events for modelers who haven’t attended or want to know more about them. It was recorded and available to view on YouTube. It’s about 50 minutes and cued up for you to enjoy.
I hope the discussion encourages modelers to participate in an upcoming railroad prototype modeler event. The RPM calendar is full of possibilities.
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