The unknown future of trains under the Domes

Since 1967, Milwaukee has had a unique horticultural destination called the Mitchell Park Conservatory (but known locally as the "Domes" because of the shape). The facility has three bee-hive shaped glass domes, each featuring a different climate inside (desert, tropical, and floral show). 

The large-scale train display at the domes. Note the unique pattern of the glass behind the display

The desert and tropical domes essentially remain the same inside year round, but the floral show dome's display is changed regularly. In the late 90s, the Domes began hosting a large-scale train exhibit from January through March of each year. It became a popular attraction, with several clubs volunteering their time to operate trains and answer questions. (Garden Railways, our sister publication, had an article about this display in their February 1999 issue. We thank GR for use of their photos here.)

Each year the display had a theme, ranging from historical to whimsical.

At the end of January, pieces of concrete started falling and the Domes are closed until further notice. Read more about the closure and see a photo of the facility here. To learn more about the Friends of the Domes, visit their page here.

Several local clubs donated their time (and at times, supplies) for the display.

This is saddening on many levels for me. The annual model-train exhibit had opened in mid-January, and an expanded show with more operating exhibits from local clubs had been planned for early February. Years ago, I had talked with an employee from the Domes, and she'd told me that the trains brought in a good number of people. Kids especially loved the trains. 

On a larger scale, I know of other clubs and exhibits that have lost their venue for one reason or another. Shopping malls may decide to no longer allow a club set up a layout, or a building owner may increase rent to the point where a club is unable to afford a clubhouse. I know business is business, but it's the public who is losing out. A kid or a family whose interest won't be sparked by seeing a public display.

Have you or your club ever lost a venue? Do you think public displays of model trains are useful?