After considerable thought, I have decided to build a completely new layout in our new home. I originally thought I'd simply reassemble the sections of my dismantled layout (now stored in our daughter's garage) but I think I've come up with a better plan. Fortunately, I will be able to use the track I've already laid by cutting out the roadbed. Curvature standards, etc., will be the same on the new layout, so none of what I've already done will be wasted.
What I enjoy most about model railroading is creating scenes that depict a particular era and locale. I also enjoy switching, rather than mainline running. So I will build a switching layout that has ample room for structures, streets, etc. As with my recently dismantled layout, this will be the Gulf Harbor Terminal Railroad, set in a small, fictional Texas port in April 1947. I'm still refining the track plan, though I can say the layout will be an L-shaped shelf 8' x 12' and will be 3' deep to allow for ample background scenery; however, all track will be within a 2' reach. The layout will include a small roundhouse and yard, a small passenger depot, a pier and a "background" section of business and residential structures. The focal point will be the pier area, which I envision as a crowded industrial district with spurs that cross one another.
The town of Gulf Harbor will be at the end of a branch of a medium-sized fictional railroad serving the Texas coast, name to be determined.
We're moving a week from now. My intention is to start construction within the next month or so.
About Me
- Chuck
- I'm a lifelong model railroad enthusiast, which must be genetic. Two of my great-grandfathers were with the Northern Pacific Railway, one as a conductor and the other as an engineer; the 4-6-0 locomotive he frequently operated stands in a city park in Pasco, in my native Washington State. I'm just old enough to have memories of steam locomotives in service. My last model railroad (now dismantled) was my sixth; I am planning my seventh.. I've always modeled in S scale, thanks to an American Flyer train set my father bought (supposedly for me) when I was 6 months old! Besides trains I've always been interested in astronomy. For Christmas 2010 my wife Susie gave me a really nice telescope and so astronomy has also become a hobby. We've returned to the Northwest, to Idaho, where we have previously lived, after eight years in Texas. We enjoyed Texas and have many truly great friends there, but we missed the mountains and the distinct seasons of Idaho. We're retired and are thoroughly enjoying it.