Here are some shots from a rail fan trip we did in May 1999 to the Horseshoe Curve area.
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Layout Design
This is the original sketch for the layout design. Inspiration came from a number of noted designers, especially the late Matt Schaefer, and including Bernie Kempinski, Marty McGuirk and Paul Dolkos. Any errors in the execution of thier ideas are my own.
Layout "Modules"
Here's a picture of one of the layout "Module" sections under construction. Modules are complex sections of the layout: a four-track interlocking at MG tower, for example.
The advantage of building Modules is that they can be wired without standing on your head. The switch machines were installed by Edd Braithwood, a fellow NTRAKer who now lives in West Virginia. He was able to take the Module home and work at his convenience. Here, Jeff Peck completes the wiring.
Once complete, the Modules are installed on the layout and track is connected. A gap of about 18" was left to ensure the the curved connecting track would flow smoothly.
Cresson Module
Here's a shot of the Cresson Module with Leonard White, the layouts' first engineer and one of the regular crew.
The Slide
Here's another shot of Leonard, with an easbound on #3 track and "The Slide" barely visible behind the reefers.
The general mountain profile is built from 1/2" plywood.
The cardboard grid creates the terrain contours.
Here is a section of mountain scenery just below the Curve. Paint, and trees are next.
Very cool. Trains have changed since 1956 as has some of the track. But not the roadbed or too much of the scenery.
ReplyDeleteWhen we took these shots, did we imagine Conrail as a fallen flag?
ReplyDeleteHi John
ReplyDeleteDo you have more from that trip? We'd love to add them to TheCRHS.org's galleries.