Articles: Model Trains

The finest model train shows

You have been designing model trains for a while and you are starting to get a little more serious about your hobby. You have even thought about getting involved in model train shows, but are not really sure where to start. Here are a few tips and suggestions on how to get involved in model train shows.

If you are really serious about it, the best place to start would be with the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA). This is the largest organization of its kind devoted to the development and promotion of model railroading. Founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1935, the NMRA has been promoting the enjoyment of model railroad building and provides a great deal of information and supplies to enhance your train building experience. Go to www.nmra.org for a complete description of the association’s events and shows.

Another great source of information is the Great Scale Model Train Show. The Show has been running for over 25 years, and is held in Timonium, Md. in January, April, June and October each year. Go to www.gsmts.com for complete details about the show and how you can participate.

So what can you expect at these shows? The National Model Railroad Association has been divided into not only a national show, but through the year there are meetings on division level and state levels. Each level has their own competitions as well. You will find a wealth of knowledge among your fellow train enthusiasts and it is a great way to meet people who share your love of trains.

The NMRA offers classes and modules to help you learn more about the hobby and what it can do for you. They offer clinics to teach you specifics about the hobby. They even offer members a library of information on trains and their designs. If you would like to excel in train design, the association provides an achievement program to further help you learn and master the art of model railroading. The achievement program will provide you information on everything from layout and starting your design to how to add buildings, landscaping and shrubbery.

For more information on model train shows please visit the following websites:
http://www.littletoyt rains.com/
http://woodenrailway adventures.com/ModelTrainShow. html
http://www.greatesthobby.c om/wgh/default.aspx?c=a&id=30