hobby inspiration – Notes on Designing, Building, and Operating Model Railroads

Online model displays

*Malcolm Houck displays his HO scale scratchbuilt NYO&W steam locos at the 2023 Northeast RPM.*

One of my favorite parts of a Railroad Prototype Modeler meet (RPM) is the model display room. I find great inspiration among the tables of models and always bring home new ideas that move projects on my workbench.

Photo fun

After unpacking most of the freight car fleet, I was passing by the yard and the above view caught my eye. I decided to snap a few photos as the set up reminded me of a prototype photo.

2023 RPM-East summary

I traveled across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the 2023 RPM-East prototype modeler event in Youngwood, PA, for the March 24 & 25th weekend. It was my first RPM of the year. I’ve been involved with publicizing and assisting with RPM-East since 2005.

RPM events

As February slips away and the countdown to spring begins, it’s time to check out the Railroad Prototype Modeler (RPM) calendar for several March and April events. I’ve been a fan of these events for many years as I enjoy the presentations, display models, and seeing friends. I return home all charged up for the next project.

Boomer operator – Pittsburg, Shawmut & Northern

I attended an operating session on Perry Squier’s HO scale Pittsburg, Shawmut & Northern layout earlier in January. I had participated in several sessions a dozen years ago, before moving to El Paso. It’s a thrill to see all of Perry’s smooth-running steam power and equipment set in 1923. Additionally, it was great to see many familiar faces among the crew and meet a few new members.