I'm a service member, and I've been approached by the local Youth Services Center to teach a class on how to build a model railroad. I've been granted a budget by them, and 32 sq. ft. of space (4'x8'). I know it's gonna be continuous run loop (at least one, preferably 2) with a couple sidings and switches for the obvious addition flair to operations. It's gonna have minimal, basic scenery. A very basic layout to teach the basics of layout design and construction. My question is what scale do you think that it should be in? Same for era or locale? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Lionel collector, stuck in an N scaler's modelling space.
If given the same task, I would op for one of the Atlas-O starter sets, and make it part of a theme park (think Hershey Park or Busch Gardens). Include the kids in the benchwork phase, as well as simple electric wiring. You can add on to the park setting each year with new offerings from LEMAX, and make sure each ride is activated by a push button at layout's edge. The action is what's important.
Phoebe Vet You didn't mention the age range of the participants.
You didn't mention the age range of the participants.
I replied asuming that the age of the participants were young kids.
The Lehigh Valley Railroad, the Route of the Black Diamond Express, John Wilkes and Maple Leaf.
-Jake, modeling the Barclay, Towanda & Susquehanna.
4 by 8 total, including the aisle? If so, probably would have to be N scale. If 4 by 8 is the layout surface, then HO is the way to go, particularly if the children's hands are small.
Steve Hanson past volunteer, Austin & Texas Central Railroad
Dave
Lackawanna Route of the Phoebe Snow
Locale, you'll probably want to use the New York Central since there seems to be plenty of equipment avaliable.
As far as era, it should be the transition era, allowing the famous steam engines to appear, and some interesting diesels get to make an apperance, which kids seem to love.
As far as scale on a budget, HO makes the most sense. Large enough to stand up to abuse, but small enough to allow plenty of action.