Water tank color

[Anonymous]

I have a Korber model 1900 era water tank that I would like to add to my early 1950's New York Central RR layout. I am not sure what color it should be - black, silver or something else. I have several books on the NYC and some of the pictures show the tanks to be silver, but the dates seem to be late 60's and beyond. Is there anyone out there who could advise me on this. Thanks.

[Anonymous]

As long as you aren't doing any "prototype specific" modeling, just use your own judgement. Is this going to be a "city" water tower, or a "factory" water tower? A good effect on a factory water tower is to add the name of the company to the tank. I have the same tower you have, and I have mine painted Grand Trunk Western blue, with the "GT" noodle on the side. This is at my enginehouse. Yes, I have a prototype, the shops at Battle Creek, MI. The blue is the 1970's color, before that the tank was black, with the GTW "square-tilted-box" emblem. For 1950's era, I'd say that black, or silver are both good choices. But that is not carved in stone. By the way, before you fini***hat water tower, you might want to replace the Korber ladders with a more "scale" ladder. After getting mine done, I find the stock ladder looks a bit "heavy". If I ever get up the ambition, I think I'll solder up a scale ladder out of wire. That will take at least one long night at the workbench, and at least one six-pack of Budweiser.
Todd C.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the thoughts. I will be using the water tower as part of the engine service facility to "supply" water to the water columns in the area. I totally agree on you issue with the ladder - I had planned to to that. I also have concerns about the railings as well. Now about that long night with the six pack...

[Anonymous]

Yes indeed, I hope after I solder up that ladder,my HO scale RR employees won't find any askew ladder rungs on their way up! Let's see... one beer per ten ladder rungs, Yup! Model Railroading IS Fun!!!!
Todd C.