Page 98 - 38. MRH13-04-Apr2013
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example of where scale hardly matters. The recessed concrete
abutments and bridge shoes beneath the girders work pretty
much the same on the prototype and in any modeling scale. I
now have a collection of close-up photos showing exactly how
it is done.
Summary
The three layouts I visited featured different operations con-
cepts, so the contrast in approaches was quite informative. The
PRR used their own unique position-light signals and communi-
cated by trainphone (like early radio), so all the operating sys-
tems were relevant to PRR mainline operations. I also learned a
lot about how to run local jobs over the main line.
Most of all, it was a blast to share model railroading with some
great guys and learn what it takes to host an enjoyable session,
and especially how to roll with the punches that our hobby can
throw from time to time.
Probably the best place to find information about a session
in your area is the OpSig magazine “The Dispatcher’s Office”.
NMRA regional meets, and of course the NMRA national con-
vention, are also good places to look.
There is a lot that can be learned in any scale and it is fun as well.
The model railroads included in the Great Basin Getaway are
great sources for information on “how to run a railroad.” They
look great, run well, and are hosted by affable, knowledgeable
model railroaders. There is likely to be a similar set of folks not
far from your base of operations: the OpSIG at
can
help you locate such groups close to you.
Group Operating Sessions - 5
John Drye is our N-scale editor
and columnist. He has been model
railroading since receiving the
traditional Lionel set at age 8. John
is currently building two layouts: an
N scale switching module based on
the modern Norfolk Southern, and
a basement layout based on the
transition-era Pennsylvania Railroad.
When not doing trains, John works as a contractor for the US
Navy and volunteers for the American Red Cross and Operation
Lifesaver.
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MRH-Apr 2013
