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What kind of train did you start with
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Speaking of memories and traditions, I got my start in model railroading from my father who has been a hobbyist all his life. He began before I was born by creating model circuses. He sewed tents, scratchbuilt circus wagons, and hand carved people and animals. His setup would take up about 3/4 of his back yard at the time. After a number of years of this, he became involved in HO gauge railroading around the time of my birth (1967). He created a 5'x9'layout complete with a winter scene based upon Williamsport,Pa. and the PRR.I have vague memories of sitting on his lap being enthralled as the trains went 'round and 'round. During this time he scratchbuilt many different structures out of balsa including a church,little red school house, barn, general store, bank, factory, log cabin and a warehouse. On the bottom of each building he inscribed in pencil such things as "made Feb 1969-for Matt's 2nd birthday; made Feb 1970-for Matt's 3rd birthday" etc. <br />By the time I was about 6 or so he gave up model railroads in favor of other pursuits and has never got back into the hobby. (He is now an avid fly fisherman and carves duck decoys.) <br />All my dad's railroad items were packed into his attic (beside the wooden crates of circus stuff). <br />When I moved out of my parent's home, I became extremely devoted to model railroading and "confiscated" my dad's railroad boxes.My current layout incorporates all my dad's things into it including a wonderful running Rivarossi Hudson and a beautiful PRR 2-8-2. Also all those stuctures have or will have a home on my layout. And though they may not be super-detailed or in some cases not exactly to scale, I would never give them up for a craftsman kit replacement or a "better" proto-typical representation of the real thing. <br />I love to watch my dad's eyes when he visits my home and sees all his old things being enjoyed by me. I hope that when I'm old and gray my son will respect and take an interest in such memories. <br /> <br />Happy Railroading!! <br />Matt
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