Club Member?

[johncolley]

I belong to 2 clubs, the local one is Port Townsend Southern and has a fixed HO layout and a modular N layout. The second one is 40 miles away The North Olympic Peninsula RR in Sequim, WA is modular HO, for which I have a switching set of 4 modules giving up to 20 feet, and a 4 ft. duckunder bridge that can be used anywhere on the setup. The modules are pretty individual with no common theme except the standard spec's. I am currently looking for a Free-mo group in the Puget Sound area because I like the idea of large turnouts and track radii with easements and a free flowing concept that is united but flexible. johncolley tholcapn Port Townsend, WA

[johncolley]

I belong to 2 clubs, the local one is Port Townsend Southern and has a fixed HO layout and a modular N layout. The second one is 40 miles away The North Olympic Peninsula RR in Sequim, WA is modular HO, for which I have a switching set of 4 modules giving up to 20 feet, and a 4 ft. duckunder bridge that can be used anywhere on the setup. The modules are pretty individual with no common theme except the standard spec's. I am currently looking for a Free-mo group in the Puget Sound area because I like the idea of large turnouts and track radii with easements and a free flowing concept that is united but flexible. johncolley tholcapn Port Townsend, WA

[Anonymous]

yes in durand michigan

[Anonymous]

yes in durand michigan

[PistolPete]

No. Nothing really nearby. I would rather spend the 2 hour rt drive time working on my own layout. I may reconsider when I have more free time.

[PistolPete]

No. Nothing really nearby. I would rather spend the 2 hour rt drive time working on my own layout. I may reconsider when I have more free time.

[Anonymous]

No. Mostly because I like to freelance and most of the clubs around here are pretty crazy when it comes to realism. What ever happened to fun? Anyway, I haven't given up all hope. Maybe I'll start my own club of freelanceers who just want to have fun.

[Anonymous]

No. Mostly because I like to freelance and most of the clubs around here are pretty crazy when it comes to realism. What ever happened to fun? Anyway, I haven't given up all hope. Maybe I'll start my own club of freelanceers who just want to have fun.

[Anonymous]

To much fussing and fighting and not enough producing or having FUN !

Burt

[Anonymous]

To much fussing and fighting and not enough producing or having FUN !

Burt

[Anonymous]

I've recently (three months ago) started a small railroad club within my church (on a 4x8 in ho). "The Alpha and Omega Railroad Ministry"

I don't think we really get into the politics and power struggles yet (and hopefully never) as it's goals are more simple, to be a outreach ministry that involve the members (once a month in work) and is run after church and during events (for vistors to enjoy) Trains are like magnets drawing folks to them, and the little flyers as handouts have some scripture that takes thinking about trains to thoughts about God.

Maybe becasue it's new we really aren't focused primarily on super concerns over periods, rivit counting, and such.... and hopefully super offical rules and officers and such can be avoided over just getting a group together to build and enjoy the trains. It's been a wonderful success so far, in that the seed money has been almost matched by church folk in donations, as well as material donations too.

I know personally it's been some work, but a whole lot of fun too.

IF ANYONE WOULD LIKE TO TALK ABOUT IDEAS OR THOUGHTS IN COUPLING TRAINS WITH GOD PLEASE E-MAIL ME:

[e-mail]

Maybe we can get a world wide group of Christians together in developing better materials. I can also send you a link to our webpage, it's a pretty small set up so far... mostly just some track on a table with ceramic houses, but in time it should have a mountian and some water and such.

If anyone ever gets to Weirs Beach N.H. in the U.S.A. look for the Weirs United Methodist Church, and come visit on a Sunday... We'll give you a go as a guest conductor.

[Anonymous]

I've recently (three months ago) started a small railroad club within my church (on a 4x8 in ho). "The Alpha and Omega Railroad Ministry"

I don't think we really get into the politics and power struggles yet (and hopefully never) as it's goals are more simple, to be a outreach ministry that involve the members (once a month in work) and is run after church and during events (for vistors to enjoy) Trains are like magnets drawing folks to them, and the little flyers as handouts have some scripture that takes thinking about trains to thoughts about God.

Maybe becasue it's new we really aren't focused primarily on super concerns over periods, rivit counting, and such.... and hopefully super offical rules and officers and such can be avoided over just getting a group together to build and enjoy the trains. It's been a wonderful success so far, in that the seed money has been almost matched by church folk in donations, as well as material donations too.

I know personally it's been some work, but a whole lot of fun too.

IF ANYONE WOULD LIKE TO TALK ABOUT IDEAS OR THOUGHTS IN COUPLING TRAINS WITH GOD PLEASE E-MAIL ME:

[e-mail]

Maybe we can get a world wide group of Christians together in developing better materials. I can also send you a link to our webpage, it's a pretty small set up so far... mostly just some track on a table with ceramic houses, but in time it should have a mountian and some water and such.

If anyone ever gets to Weirs Beach N.H. in the U.S.A. look for the Weirs United Methodist Church, and come visit on a Sunday... We'll give you a go as a guest conductor.

[Anonymous]

I BELONGED TO CLUB FOR A SHORT TIME, BUT GOT TIRED OF THE LITTLE CRY BABIES TAKING THEIR THINGS AND GOING HOME IF ANY ONE MADE A STATEMENT OR HAD A DIFFERENT IDEA FROM THEIRS.

[Anonymous]

I BELONGED TO CLUB FOR A SHORT TIME, BUT GOT TIRED OF THE LITTLE CRY BABIES TAKING THEIR THINGS AND GOING HOME IF ANY ONE MADE A STATEMENT OR HAD A DIFFERENT IDEA FROM THEIRS.

[Anonymous]

I've been a member to Win-N-Trak in WInnipeg, MB CANADA for just over a year now.

[Anonymous]

I've been a member to Win-N-Trak in WInnipeg, MB CANADA for just over a year now.

[eastcoast]

YES, I am active in the club here,in my spare time when NOT working for the GOV.
I am with the Radcliff(Kentucky)Model Railroad Association. Excellent group of folks here.IT'S THAT FRIENDLY!!!

[eastcoast]

YES, I am active in the club here,in my spare time when NOT working for the GOV.
I am with the Radcliff(Kentucky)Model Railroad Association. Excellent group of folks here.IT'S THAT FRIENDLY!!!

[Anonymous]

Member in a modelrailroadclub ? NEVER MORE, I swear it: NEVER, NEVER MORE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I finished my membership after 17 years in July this year !

I read the reply written by trainnut 484 and I will say only one thing: 150 % the truth !!!!

I was one of 80 members in a club, secretary in the board and was the real no. 3 in the club until I stay out.

But there were to many that thinks that the club is their own property. And the politics and egos were real so thick you could cut them with a rotary arm saw. Politics and egos are for politicians. And nobody will stop them !

I was at a meeting for the last time in June and I don´t miss it.

A little reason was also: I prefeer US RR´s and thats for many people here in Germany not easy to understand.

I have now more time for my hobby´s[8D]

[Anonymous]

Member in a modelrailroadclub ? NEVER MORE, I swear it: NEVER, NEVER MORE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I finished my membership after 17 years in July this year !

I read the reply written by trainnut 484 and I will say only one thing: 150 % the truth !!!!

I was one of 80 members in a club, secretary in the board and was the real no. 3 in the club until I stay out.

But there were to many that thinks that the club is their own property. And the politics and egos were real so thick you could cut them with a rotary arm saw. Politics and egos are for politicians. And nobody will stop them !

I was at a meeting for the last time in June and I don´t miss it.

A little reason was also: I prefeer US RR´s and thats for many people here in Germany not easy to understand.

I have now more time for my hobby´s[8D]

[detting]

Club modelling is a lot of fun and offers a lot of opportunities to try new and different things. It also give you access to a diverse roster of equipment that you may not have known about. The only reason that I stopped going to club meetings was the distance issue. I should start a club up my way.

Later...

[detting]

Club modelling is a lot of fun and offers a lot of opportunities to try new and different things. It also give you access to a diverse roster of equipment that you may not have known about. The only reason that I stopped going to club meetings was the distance issue. I should start a club up my way.

Later...

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by santafefan

i think clubs serve a purpose, however i do not belong to one. there are several clubs in my area (massachusetts) but i have opted to stick with a small round robin group of several people. we all have a certain amount of experience in different areas of the hobby. this arrangement is fine for all of us for several reasons. we meet oce every week at a differant house to operate that layout. if it is your turn to host a operating session, you supply some basic refresments and direct the operation. we generally meet more often in winter. but if there is a shortage of operators we will help the host do some maintainence on his layout., that way the session is not wasted. this system has worked for us for several years. we occasionally open our layouts to the public via local hobby shop advertiseing. this helps foster the hobby to newcomers by giving them a look at fully funtional layouts. none of us like the structure of club operation nor do we have to deal with commitees that decide what the next project is . we all work on our own layouts individually but if there is a problem on a particular layout we pool our resources to solve the problem

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by santafefan

i think clubs serve a purpose, however i do not belong to one. there are several clubs in my area (massachusetts) but i have opted to stick with a small round robin group of several people. we all have a certain amount of experience in different areas of the hobby. this arrangement is fine for all of us for several reasons. we meet oce every week at a differant house to operate that layout. if it is your turn to host a operating session, you supply some basic refresments and direct the operation. we generally meet more often in winter. but if there is a shortage of operators we will help the host do some maintainence on his layout., that way the session is not wasted. this system has worked for us for several years. we occasionally open our layouts to the public via local hobby shop advertiseing. this helps foster the hobby to newcomers by giving them a look at fully funtional layouts. none of us like the structure of club operation nor do we have to deal with commitees that decide what the next project is . we all work on our own layouts individually but if there is a problem on a particular layout we pool our resources to solve the problem

[Anonymous]

After reading all these posts, and there seems to be a general consensus, that Round Robins work quite well. I'm familiar with Round Robins and have a few friends in them and they're satisfied with them. Someday I may join one but I think for now at least, I go the Lone Wolf route.

[Anonymous]

After reading all these posts, and there seems to be a general consensus, that Round Robins work quite well. I'm familiar with Round Robins and have a few friends in them and they're satisfied with them. Someday I may join one but I think for now at least, I go the Lone Wolf route.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by groosa

I am looking for a club within a reasonable distance from Lady Lake, Florida. We will be re-locating there in October/November. I am interested in HO scale.

Jerry

I moved to The Villages (Lady Lake) about 3 years ago and am working on an HO layout in a 13' x 32' room. Call/look me up when you arrive. Jerry Glow (in the phone book)

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by groosa

I am looking for a club within a reasonable distance from Lady Lake, Florida. We will be re-locating there in October/November. I am interested in HO scale.

Jerry

I moved to The Villages (Lady Lake) about 3 years ago and am working on an HO layout in a 13' x 32' room. Call/look me up when you arrive. Jerry Glow (in the phone book)

[OhioRailroader]

Never have been a member of a MRR club, yet. And since all of my college classes are at night, it would be a bit difficult to make the meetings of the local club here. I would like to join the modular HO club here since I've ventured into modules this time around. But as mentioned class is the same time as meetings. No one seems to do meetings on weekends anymore, lol.

I am in a club of another kind though. I founded a custom car club here in Dayton, Ohio, but with me going college and probably moving to the UK for more school, I'll probably have to leave them soon.

I would just like to join a MRR club and hopefully learn some more modeling skills from a hands-on point of view with people that have some expereience. Instead of reading how to do it and it not turning out right, lol.

[OhioRailroader]

Never have been a member of a MRR club, yet. And since all of my college classes are at night, it would be a bit difficult to make the meetings of the local club here. I would like to join the modular HO club here since I've ventured into modules this time around. But as mentioned class is the same time as meetings. No one seems to do meetings on weekends anymore, lol.

I am in a club of another kind though. I founded a custom car club here in Dayton, Ohio, but with me going college and probably moving to the UK for more school, I'll probably have to leave them soon.

I would just like to join a MRR club and hopefully learn some more modeling skills from a hands-on point of view with people that have some expereience. Instead of reading how to do it and it not turning out right, lol.

[Anonymous]

I've been a member of several clubs over the years. Two were round robin affairs which worked best when all we did was socialize. One was a club which owned its building and met twice weekly. This one I enjoyed for the operating, some construction and the socializing too. I have had two different operating groups on my own layout for about 7 years. These fellows are fairly serious about running on a schedule. We socialize afterwards.

[Anonymous]

I've been a member of several clubs over the years. Two were round robin affairs which worked best when all we did was socialize. One was a club which owned its building and met twice weekly. This one I enjoyed for the operating, some construction and the socializing too. I have had two different operating groups on my own layout for about 7 years. These fellows are fairly serious about running on a schedule. We socialize afterwards.

[Anonymous]

I've been a member of the Pasadena Model Railroad Club (actually in LA, CA now) for almost 20 years. A club is like any other activity: what you get out of it depends on what you're willing to put into it AND what your expectations are. Yes we have our politics; we can't help some of it as we are a corporation and own our building. And yes there are some opinionated people. But I am in awe at what I see every time I go down to the club and I can't imagine belonging to any of the other clubs in the area (except maybe the Slim Gauge Guild). Where else can you see the full consist CA Zephyr passing the full consist San Joaquin Daylight and meeting a 50-car freight pulled by a Bigboy or doubled-headed with Cab Forwards? Or run a 9000 and not short out? 5000 sqft, 42" curves and #8 turnouts on the passing sidings. A helper district that really is a test of locomotives and operators.

Yes we have our cliques and "difficicult personalities" including yours truly. We have had two women join our club and both have been well received; we have an associate member who is the wife of another member, and she operates better than some of our old-timers.

Come and join us, we're there on Tuesdays and Saturdays: 5458 Alhambra Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90032

[Anonymous]

I've been a member of the Pasadena Model Railroad Club (actually in LA, CA now) for almost 20 years. A club is like any other activity: what you get out of it depends on what you're willing to put into it AND what your expectations are. Yes we have our politics; we can't help some of it as we are a corporation and own our building. And yes there are some opinionated people. But I am in awe at what I see every time I go down to the club and I can't imagine belonging to any of the other clubs in the area (except maybe the Slim Gauge Guild). Where else can you see the full consist CA Zephyr passing the full consist San Joaquin Daylight and meeting a 50-car freight pulled by a Bigboy or doubled-headed with Cab Forwards? Or run a 9000 and not short out? 5000 sqft, 42" curves and #8 turnouts on the passing sidings. A helper district that really is a test of locomotives and operators.

Yes we have our cliques and "difficicult personalities" including yours truly. We have had two women join our club and both have been well received; we have an associate member who is the wife of another member, and she operates better than some of our old-timers.

Come and join us, we're there on Tuesdays and Saturdays: 5458 Alhambra Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90032

[Anonymous]

I HAVE TRIED TWICE TO JOIN A CLUB. THE LAST TIME I DIDN'T GET TO MEET THE MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY BECAUSE NON OF THE OTHER MEMBERS WERE SPEAKING TO HIM AND SO THEY WOULDN'T TELL ME WHO HE WAS, BUT I WAS WELCOME TO COME BACK AFTER NEW ELECTIONS TO GET RID OF HIM!
I AGREE, LEAVE YOUR EGO'S AT THE DOOR. AND AS FOR HAVING A WOMAN MEMBER. YOU'RE WELCOME IN ILLINOIS ANYTIME!! I THINK HAVING FEMALE MEMBERS WOULD BE A GREAT STEP FORWARD FOR ALL CLUBS.

[Anonymous]

I HAVE TRIED TWICE TO JOIN A CLUB. THE LAST TIME I DIDN'T GET TO MEET THE MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY BECAUSE NON OF THE OTHER MEMBERS WERE SPEAKING TO HIM AND SO THEY WOULDN'T TELL ME WHO HE WAS, BUT I WAS WELCOME TO COME BACK AFTER NEW ELECTIONS TO GET RID OF HIM!
I AGREE, LEAVE YOUR EGO'S AT THE DOOR. AND AS FOR HAVING A WOMAN MEMBER. YOU'RE WELCOME IN ILLINOIS ANYTIME!! I THINK HAVING FEMALE MEMBERS WOULD BE A GREAT STEP FORWARD FOR ALL CLUBS.

[michaelstevens]

No -- I'm not a club member.
I have, however, built a (HO scale) 3 mile double tracked main line layout, in my basement and liberated garage.
In addition to the 2 main tracks; there are also 7 other continuous running track loops available. Aditionally there are also 7 ea - 50 freight car and 14 ea - 9 pass. car hidden staging tracks -- so that I am able to alternate (reasonably conveniently) between my US freight & Amtrak and my British (steam & diesel) passenger collections.
Detailed landscaping is the next phase.
Does anyone want to take a look at this ? Take photos etc. ?
I'm too busy keeping the track clean etc. !

[michaelstevens]

No -- I'm not a club member.
I have, however, built a (HO scale) 3 mile double tracked main line layout, in my basement and liberated garage.
In addition to the 2 main tracks; there are also 7 other continuous running track loops available. Aditionally there are also 7 ea - 50 freight car and 14 ea - 9 pass. car hidden staging tracks -- so that I am able to alternate (reasonably conveniently) between my US freight & Amtrak and my British (steam & diesel) passenger collections.
Detailed landscaping is the next phase.
Does anyone want to take a look at this ? Take photos etc. ?
I'm too busy keeping the track clean etc. !

[Anonymous]

I've never been a member of a MRR club, but I have considered applying for membership in the local club in Kalamazoo, MI. I've visited a few times and thought of applying for membership this year, but they are a little hard to make contact with. Their web site no longer works and I just haven't made enough effort I guess.
So, I've done my own thing with HO, Z and now starting with G.
Bob

[Anonymous]

I've never been a member of a MRR club, but I have considered applying for membership in the local club in Kalamazoo, MI. I've visited a few times and thought of applying for membership this year, but they are a little hard to make contact with. Their web site no longer works and I just haven't made enough effort I guess.
So, I've done my own thing with HO, Z and now starting with G.
Bob

[Anonymous]

I enjoy the club atmosphere. All members have a common thread, being serving or retired military. It is also a great way of sharing your interest and skills with others. Our club has an N scale modular layout and are currently working on an HO modular layout. When the HO layout is ready to show the public, we will have some hard decisions to make in which layout do we take to a show as the HO members outnumber the N members at this particular time. However, this could change with the next posting season.

[Anonymous]

I enjoy the club atmosphere. All members have a common thread, being serving or retired military. It is also a great way of sharing your interest and skills with others. Our club has an N scale modular layout and are currently working on an HO modular layout. When the HO layout is ready to show the public, we will have some hard decisions to make in which layout do we take to a show as the HO members outnumber the N members at this particular time. However, this could change with the next posting season.

[Anonymous]

I have joined a 2 rail O Scale club that is 400 miles from home! I have a friend in the club and see he pftem enough to warrant not being a guest at the club operating and work sessions!!! Why so far from home? Simple in the environs of Fort Smith, AR there are no model railroad clubs !! Learn something new every time I enter the building! Most of which I am able to use in buidling my own layout in HO scale.
Of course, with any club with a number of members you have those that come to work and those that stand around and bs the entire operating or work sessions. Club politics is a consideration in attempting to get the club to do anything.

taxdoc

[Anonymous]

I have joined a 2 rail O Scale club that is 400 miles from home! I have a friend in the club and see he pftem enough to warrant not being a guest at the club operating and work sessions!!! Why so far from home? Simple in the environs of Fort Smith, AR there are no model railroad clubs !! Learn something new every time I enter the building! Most of which I am able to use in buidling my own layout in HO scale.
Of course, with any club with a number of members you have those that come to work and those that stand around and bs the entire operating or work sessions. Club politics is a consideration in attempting to get the club to do anything.

taxdoc

[Anonymous]

I am working on a 13' x 32' layout in The Villages (Lady Lake) and welcome interested experienced modelers.

also Jerry

QUOTE: Originally posted by groosa

I am looking for a club within a reasonable distance from Lady Lake, Florida. We will be re-locating there in October/November. I am interested in HO scale.

Jerry

[Anonymous]

I am working on a 13' x 32' layout in The Villages (Lady Lake) and welcome interested experienced modelers.

also Jerry

QUOTE: Originally posted by groosa

I am looking for a club within a reasonable distance from Lady Lake, Florida. We will be re-locating there in October/November. I am interested in HO scale.

Jerry

[Anonymous]

i think clubs serve a purpose, however i do not belong to one. there are several clubs in my area (massachusetts) but i have opted to stick with a small round robin group of several people. we all have a certain amount of experience in different areas of the hobby. this arrangement is fine for all of us for several reasons. we meet oce every week at a differant house to operate that layout. if it is your turn to host a operating session, you supply some basic refresments and direct the operation. we generally meet more often in winter. but if there is a shortage of operators we will help the host do some maintainence on his layout., that way the session is not wasted. this system has worked for us for several years. we occasionally open our layouts to the public via local hobby shop advertiseing. this helps foster the hobby to newcomers by giving them a look at fully funtional layouts. none of us like the structure of club operation nor do we have to deal with commitees that decide what the next project is . we all work on our own layouts individually but if there is a problem on a particular layout we pool our resources to solve the problem

[Anonymous]

i think clubs serve a purpose, however i do not belong to one. there are several clubs in my area (massachusetts) but i have opted to stick with a small round robin group of several people. we all have a certain amount of experience in different areas of the hobby. this arrangement is fine for all of us for several reasons. we meet oce every week at a differant house to operate that layout. if it is your turn to host a operating session, you supply some basic refresments and direct the operation. we generally meet more often in winter. but if there is a shortage of operators we will help the host do some maintainence on his layout., that way the session is not wasted. this system has worked for us for several years. we occasionally open our layouts to the public via local hobby shop advertiseing. this helps foster the hobby to newcomers by giving them a look at fully funtional layouts. none of us like the structure of club operation nor do we have to deal with commitees that decide what the next project is . we all work on our own layouts individually but if there is a problem on a particular layout we pool our resources to solve the problem

[Anonymous]

There are no clubs in my aera. The closest one is 45 miles south of me and it is realy a closed round robin. No new blood. :( The hobby shops in town know of people with skill and will lead you in there direction but thats it. There are some old club layouts at one hobby shop that I found but there is a no touch rule and no club, "we did that for years and now were to old to start a new one". I am new to the MR world ( looked on in wounder and watering mouth for years) and not ready to try to start anything just yet. Soon? I hope but not yet. So I have just up and joined this club and to date I have found nothing but realy good people with lots of help to give. Thank you all...

[e-mail]

[Anonymous]

There are no clubs in my aera. The closest one is 45 miles south of me and it is realy a closed round robin. No new blood. :( The hobby shops in town know of people with skill and will lead you in there direction but thats it. There are some old club layouts at one hobby shop that I found but there is a no touch rule and no club, "we did that for years and now were to old to start a new one". I am new to the MR world ( looked on in wounder and watering mouth for years) and not ready to try to start anything just yet. Soon? I hope but not yet. So I have just up and joined this club and to date I have found nothing but realy good people with lots of help to give. Thank you all...

[e-mail]

[Anonymous]

I was for a few years but as a previous poster commented, the politics, egos, and elitism got to be a bit much for me. This is my hobby, that a play at in my spare time. I get enough of the aforementioned during the day at work, i am not particularly interested in it on the evenings and weekends.

I tried a different club for a short while, but never really felt very comfortable there, so i have been going it alone for a few years. Unfortunatly though I have not had a whole lot of time to devote to a layout in my new home since I have been pretty caught up in other hobbies (offroading).

[Anonymous]

I was for a few years but as a previous poster commented, the politics, egos, and elitism got to be a bit much for me. This is my hobby, that a play at in my spare time. I get enough of the aforementioned during the day at work, i am not particularly interested in it on the evenings and weekends.

I tried a different club for a short while, but never really felt very comfortable there, so i have been going it alone for a few years. Unfortunatly though I have not had a whole lot of time to devote to a layout in my new home since I have been pretty caught up in other hobbies (offroading).

[Anonymous]

I've been a club member for two years. Until recently, I've been mostly a lone-wolf, armchair modeler. The club layout is HO, but my main interest is N. The main advantage of membership for me is to be able to spend some of my time with other modelers. For now, the bull sessions after the meeting are my favorite time of the evening.

[Anonymous]

I've been a club member for two years. Until recently, I've been mostly a lone-wolf, armchair modeler. The club layout is HO, but my main interest is N. The main advantage of membership for me is to be able to spend some of my time with other modelers. For now, the bull sessions after the meeting are my favorite time of the evening.

[Anonymous]

I belonged to two clubs one which was the oldest in the area. And the other a new one, I enjoyed the fellowship and friends. I believe friend ship is based on what each haveing intrests in command, and model railroading is a hobby which takes all hobbys. To do it correctly. Gives a broad base for all of the hobbies their is. I enjoy permemt lay outs, but give credit to those that enjoy module layouts. But with the cost of today for a perment site is prohitive, plus the cost of insurance to high. But to tell the truth I enjoy model railroading, now if I could get the wife to give me the space to build one so I can take my equipment out of boxes and build my own layout. It's a prey answered for those who are retired or handcaped and can't work keeps the mind bussy and our lives loner.

[Anonymous]

I belonged to two clubs one which was the oldest in the area. And the other a new one, I enjoyed the fellowship and friends. I believe friend ship is based on what each haveing intrests in command, and model railroading is a hobby which takes all hobbys. To do it correctly. Gives a broad base for all of the hobbies their is. I enjoy permemt lay outs, but give credit to those that enjoy module layouts. But with the cost of today for a perment site is prohitive, plus the cost of insurance to high. But to tell the truth I enjoy model railroading, now if I could get the wife to give me the space to build one so I can take my equipment out of boxes and build my own layout. It's a prey answered for those who are retired or handcaped and can't work keeps the mind bussy and our lives loner.

[cnw1995]

Nope, but I sure would like to be in one.

[cnw1995]

Nope, but I sure would like to be in one.

[RichS1]

Yes I'm a member of the Clarion Model Railroad Club. If fact I am the founder of the Club. We have been around for 20 + years. We model G, O (Lionel) HO, S, N, & wooden. We have layouts in each scale.

[RichS1]

Yes I'm a member of the Clarion Model Railroad Club. If fact I am the founder of the Club. We have been around for 20 + years. We model G, O (Lionel) HO, S, N, & wooden. We have layouts in each scale.

[Anonymous]

I belong to HO type clubs here in the Spokane Washington area. One is called INSHOME which is a HO modular group which meets in the old Kay-Bee toy store in the old University mall and River City Modelers. These clubs are both DCC friendly.
INSHOME meets every Friday evening @ 6:00 p.m. PST and River City Modelers meets every Thursday @ 7:00 p.m. @ the corner of 1st & Fox avenues in Spokane.



Charlie G

[Anonymous]

I belong to HO type clubs here in the Spokane Washington area. One is called INSHOME which is a HO modular group which meets in the old Kay-Bee toy store in the old University mall and River City Modelers. These clubs are both DCC friendly.
INSHOME meets every Friday evening @ 6:00 p.m. PST and River City Modelers meets every Thursday @ 7:00 p.m. @ the corner of 1st & Fox avenues in Spokane.



Charlie G

[Anonymous]

I belong to HO type clubs here in the Spokane Washington area. One is called INSHOME which is a HO modular group which meets in the old Kay-Bee toy store in the old University mall and River City Modelers. These clubs are both DCC friendly.
INSHOME meets every Friday evening @ 6:00 p.m. PST and River City Modelers meets every Thursday @ 7:00 p.m. @ the corner of 1st & Fix avwnues in Spokane.



Charlie G

[Anonymous]

I belong to HO type clubs here in the Spokane Washington area. One is called INSHOME which is a HO modular group which meets in the old Kay-Bee toy store in the old University mall and River City Modelers. These clubs are both DCC friendly.
INSHOME meets every Friday evening @ 6:00 p.m. PST and River City Modelers meets every Thursday @ 7:00 p.m. @ the corner of 1st & Fix avwnues in Spokane.



Charlie G

[Anonymous]

Since retiring from school teaching, I have picked up my model railroad passion and I love every minute of it. My model railroad competes with my music activities and my part time job with the Anaheim Angels.
The model railroad club has been a great incentive to watch others and the work they do with their trains. When a compliment comes my way about my skills it makes my day.
It would be great to have building owners appreciate more about what a model railroad club can do for a community.
Hal

[Anonymous]

Since retiring from school teaching, I have picked up my model railroad passion and I love every minute of it. My model railroad competes with my music activities and my part time job with the Anaheim Angels.
The model railroad club has been a great incentive to watch others and the work they do with their trains. When a compliment comes my way about my skills it makes my day.
It would be great to have building owners appreciate more about what a model railroad club can do for a community.
Hal

[Anonymous]

Been a club member for 30 years in one club or another depending where i was living
Friendship and railroading have been great
Get to run my equipment on a club railroad i helped to design and build

[Anonymous]

Been a club member for 30 years in one club or another depending where i was living
Friendship and railroading have been great
Get to run my equipment on a club railroad i helped to design and build

[Anonymous]

After a 50 year absence from the hobby, I have finally found a club and am back to my eyeballs. We do not have a permenant address so we only run once a month. We have built many N-Trak modules and do several shows a year. This year , We are presenting our own show for the public. what a challenge. getting everyone in the tight space and satisfying all the vendor requests. In a situatuion where there is not the budget and room for a home layout, clubs allow the average Joe to run his trains and participate at really minimual expense compared to a home layout and the wife.

[Anonymous]

After a 50 year absence from the hobby, I have finally found a club and am back to my eyeballs. We do not have a permenant address so we only run once a month. We have built many N-Trak modules and do several shows a year. This year , We are presenting our own show for the public. what a challenge. getting everyone in the tight space and satisfying all the vendor requests. In a situatuion where there is not the budget and room for a home layout, clubs allow the average Joe to run his trains and participate at really minimual expense compared to a home layout and the wife.

[Anonymous]

No, was, the club's focus was on shows for the public. I'd like to join one that had operation as the focus.

[Anonymous]

No, was, the club's focus was on shows for the public. I'd like to join one that had operation as the focus.

[Anonymous]

i've been a member of the Tri-County Model Railroad Club in Kenosha , WI, its frustrating at times but most of the time its a great experience learning techniques from other members and such, we are also looking for new members for anyone in the area of Racine/Kenosha WI, its overall, a nice experience

[Anonymous]

i've been a member of the Tri-County Model Railroad Club in Kenosha , WI, its frustrating at times but most of the time its a great experience learning techniques from other members and such, we are also looking for new members for anyone in the area of Racine/Kenosha WI, its overall, a nice experience

[Anonymous]

I once helped form a club in a small community in Western Kansas, but one by one we all moved away. Later I belonged to the North Platte Valley Railroad Club in the Scottsbluff-Gering area in Nebraska. I met a lot of great people and a few trouble makers; but for the most part it was a positive experience. Only one other club member was actually interested in prototype operation, however, and we experimented with car forwarding systems, etc. on his home layout. The most enjoyable club activities were our field trips. Railfanning on Crawford Hill or riding the Wyoming and Colorado aspen tree special in the fall among others. Here in greater Kansas City I have not joined a club, but now since four or five of them have located in a shopping mall near my home I may very well take the plunge again.

Club or not to club, it's still a great hobby.

[Anonymous]

I once helped form a club in a small community in Western Kansas, but one by one we all moved away. Later I belonged to the North Platte Valley Railroad Club in the Scottsbluff-Gering area in Nebraska. I met a lot of great people and a few trouble makers; but for the most part it was a positive experience. Only one other club member was actually interested in prototype operation, however, and we experimented with car forwarding systems, etc. on his home layout. The most enjoyable club activities were our field trips. Railfanning on Crawford Hill or riding the Wyoming and Colorado aspen tree special in the fall among others. Here in greater Kansas City I have not joined a club, but now since four or five of them have located in a shopping mall near my home I may very well take the plunge again.

Club or not to club, it's still a great hobby.

[Anonymous]

megaman, I used to belong to the Mini Bunch here in Col OH . Lots of fun there, and lots of really good modeling.
Anyone interested in forming a round robin group in the Col Ohio area???

[Anonymous]

megaman, I used to belong to the Mini Bunch here in Col OH . Lots of fun there, and lots of really good modeling.
Anyone interested in forming a round robin group in the Col Ohio area???

[Anonymous]

Belong to the Merritt Model railway club here in beautiful British Columbia, Canada,we have been working last 3 years on a club layout that is situated in the Museum here and is close to being finished,we are modeling the town as it was in the late 50's mostly a CP rail influence ,our next project is a large one,we will be recreating the kettle valley line in "G" scale in an 80' x 20' area in the public library,it will be running 20 feet overhead and all around the library,we are starting the bench work in October and are fund raising like crazy,I myself have my home layout a dual track line with a large yard and work on it when I can,I am modeling the era of the 1990's to today,love the large AC 4400's & FJ 45's with a long string of grain cars curving threw the layout.

[Anonymous]

Belong to the Merritt Model railway club here in beautiful British Columbia, Canada,we have been working last 3 years on a club layout that is situated in the Museum here and is close to being finished,we are modeling the town as it was in the late 50's mostly a CP rail influence ,our next project is a large one,we will be recreating the kettle valley line in "G" scale in an 80' x 20' area in the public library,it will be running 20 feet overhead and all around the library,we are starting the bench work in October and are fund raising like crazy,I myself have my home layout a dual track line with a large yard and work on it when I can,I am modeling the era of the 1990's to today,love the large AC 4400's & FJ 45's with a long string of grain cars curving threw the layout.

[ralphb]

I'm a member of an N-Trak club which has expanded my modeling scope and helped me to meet many other modelers and brought about some travel. It also gave me a chance to do more railroading than my original tiny layout afforded
.

[ralphb]

I'm a member of an N-Trak club which has expanded my modeling scope and helped me to meet many other modelers and brought about some travel. It also gave me a chance to do more railroading than my original tiny layout afforded
.

[ralphb]

The poll is a good idea, but lacks depth. Knowing such points as guage and whether or not the club is modular offers some insight into where the hobby is. The additional questions could be triggered by a positive answer. A negative or "used to be" answer might also lead to questions about why.

[ralphb]

The poll is a good idea, but lacks depth. Knowing such points as guage and whether or not the club is modular offers some insight into where the hobby is. The additional questions could be triggered by a positive answer. A negative or "used to be" answer might also lead to questions about why.

[Anonymous]

I've been a club member in two HO train clubs. The first in SE Virginia (Yorktown area) was initially because I didn't have a place to make a layout of my own. I soon found both friends and people who helped me learn how to do better modeling. The second club, in Northern Virginia, is a module club that has round-robin meetings and monthly module setups (train shows, libraries, etc.). Here I also found new friends and a myriad of people with skills they willing shared to improve their hobby skills. Check out some of the fun we've had at www.pwmrc.org (we've got two great webmasters!). PS: DCC and sound work best with clubs and collective member's knowledge, they can be overwhelming!

[Anonymous]

I've been a club member in two HO train clubs. The first in SE Virginia (Yorktown area) was initially because I didn't have a place to make a layout of my own. I soon found both friends and people who helped me learn how to do better modeling. The second club, in Northern Virginia, is a module club that has round-robin meetings and monthly module setups (train shows, libraries, etc.). Here I also found new friends and a myriad of people with skills they willing shared to improve their hobby skills. Check out some of the fun we've had at www.pwmrc.org (we've got two great webmasters!). PS: DCC and sound work best with clubs and collective member's knowledge, they can be overwhelming!

[Anonymous]

I've been a club member, four times in the last 25 years, and in every case, politics has killed the clubs or has caused so many problems, that over time, most people just simply walked away and never looked back. I'm one of them, one among at least, 50 to 100 in this area. Clubs are difficult enough, sometimes, to cope with. You take 30 -40 guys and put them together in a club, and within a very short time, the clicks start, the politics start, all followed by a lot of arguments and hard feelings No thanks, I've had it with clubs. When you stop having fun, then it's time to leave the hobby and find something else to do. I've seen other hobbies, like Model Ship Building, almost disappear because of peoples ideology or because one faction wanted control (politics) or because people just couldn't see eye to eye and were unwilling to compromise. There isn't any room in this hobby for politics.This hobby is supposed to be fun for everyone, MALE and FEMALE alike and the one thing that STEAMS me the most is for some D@*& BOZO to set them selves up as the supreme leader of the club and expect everyone else to fall in line behind them. DISAGREE WITH ME AND YOU'RE OUT THEY SAY. To that I say BS. Everyone has a right to an opinion, and has a right to express that opinion with out being degraded. If you disagree with them, say so, but do it with some respect for the person. I see many on these forums, not this one in particular but others on the main menu, that just can't resist taking a CHEAP SHOT at someone that they disagree with. There is nothing wrong with expressing an opinion, but have a little respect for the person your disagreeing with. Also be able to laugh at most of the thoughts expressed on here and don't take any of this seriously. If you can't then maybe you shouldn't be on here. I did forget one thing above, clubs do need leadership, of course, but that leadership needs to be responsive to everyones needs and opinions not just a small handful. Ok, I'll get off my soap box now.[:(!]

[Anonymous]

I've been a club member, four times in the last 25 years, and in every case, politics has killed the clubs or has caused so many problems, that over time, most people just simply walked away and never looked back. I'm one of them, one among at least, 50 to 100 in this area. Clubs are difficult enough, sometimes, to cope with. You take 30 -40 guys and put them together in a club, and within a very short time, the clicks start, the politics start, all followed by a lot of arguments and hard feelings No thanks, I've had it with clubs. When you stop having fun, then it's time to leave the hobby and find something else to do. I've seen other hobbies, like Model Ship Building, almost disappear because of peoples ideology or because one faction wanted control (politics) or because people just couldn't see eye to eye and were unwilling to compromise. There isn't any room in this hobby for politics.This hobby is supposed to be fun for everyone, MALE and FEMALE alike and the one thing that STEAMS me the most is for some D@*& BOZO to set them selves up as the supreme leader of the club and expect everyone else to fall in line behind them. DISAGREE WITH ME AND YOU'RE OUT THEY SAY. To that I say BS. Everyone has a right to an opinion, and has a right to express that opinion with out being degraded. If you disagree with them, say so, but do it with some respect for the person. I see many on these forums, not this one in particular but others on the main menu, that just can't resist taking a CHEAP SHOT at someone that they disagree with. There is nothing wrong with expressing an opinion, but have a little respect for the person your disagreeing with. Also be able to laugh at most of the thoughts expressed on here and don't take any of this seriously. If you can't then maybe you shouldn't be on here. I did forget one thing above, clubs do need leadership, of course, but that leadership needs to be responsive to everyones needs and opinions not just a small handful. Ok, I'll get off my soap box now.[:(!]

[TomDiehl]

I've been a member of several model railroad clubs since my early teens. One thing that vexes many clubs is the problem of young members, such as how young do you let them join. There's always the debate of are we nurturing a budding young model railroader, or are we a glorified baby sitting service? The club I am presently in has solved this by having no lower age limit, but anyone under 14 wishing to join must be sponsored by a full adult member. In almost all cases this has been a relative, and the youth can only be at the club when the sponsoring member is is there, establishing a responsible adult for that youth. As said in messages above, the experience is frustrating, informative and rewarding all at once, and I'm glad I didn't miss it.

[TomDiehl]

I've been a member of several model railroad clubs since my early teens. One thing that vexes many clubs is the problem of young members, such as how young do you let them join. There's always the debate of are we nurturing a budding young model railroader, or are we a glorified baby sitting service? The club I am presently in has solved this by having no lower age limit, but anyone under 14 wishing to join must be sponsored by a full adult member. In almost all cases this has been a relative, and the youth can only be at the club when the sponsoring member is is there, establishing a responsible adult for that youth. As said in messages above, the experience is frustrating, informative and rewarding all at once, and I'm glad I didn't miss it.

[Puckdropper]

gwjordan1950, send me an email at [e-mail]... I'm curious about model railroad stuff in Ft. Wayne.

I'm a moderator of thehoscalemodelrailroadclub (The HO Scale Model Railroad Club) on Yahoo! Groups. The only policy we have is an anti-spam policy. It's primary (and stated) purpose was to protect the members and assist any legitimate businesses that wi***o visi the club. There's a picture of my F units (my babbies) in the photo gallery. More work to be done on those!

[Puckdropper]

gwjordan1950, send me an email at [e-mail]... I'm curious about model railroad stuff in Ft. Wayne.

I'm a moderator of thehoscalemodelrailroadclub (The HO Scale Model Railroad Club) on Yahoo! Groups. The only policy we have is an anti-spam policy. It's primary (and stated) purpose was to protect the members and assist any legitimate businesses that wi***o visi the club. There's a picture of my F units (my babbies) in the photo gallery. More work to be done on those!

[comserv]

If time permits and interest/needs are a reasonable match, I do recommend them. I currently have neither.

[comserv]

If time permits and interest/needs are a reasonable match, I do recommend them. I currently have neither.

[CP5415]

I used to be part of a club. It was great, no ego's or politics. Everyone was just there to run trains & build the layout.
The reason I'm not with them anymore is I moved from the area. It's a 3 hour drive now & they met during the week.
The clubs around me seem to be too uptight & have too many rules.
Not for me thanks

Gordon

[CP5415]

I used to be part of a club. It was great, no ego's or politics. Everyone was just there to run trains & build the layout.
The reason I'm not with them anymore is I moved from the area. It's a 3 hour drive now & they met during the week.
The clubs around me seem to be too uptight & have too many rules.
Not for me thanks

Gordon

[cp1057]

I have to agree with Trainwreck2, I'm very much a Lone Wolf Modeler. What with family and workplace obligations its difficult to make the commitment to attend meetings, go to trainshows, pay dues, exhibit layouts etc. I'm sure that being in a club has many advantages but being able to do things at my own speed and my own way wins out.

Charles
Hillsburgh On

[cp1057]

I have to agree with Trainwreck2, I'm very much a Lone Wolf Modeler. What with family and workplace obligations its difficult to make the commitment to attend meetings, go to trainshows, pay dues, exhibit layouts etc. I'm sure that being in a club has many advantages but being able to do things at my own speed and my own way wins out.

Charles
Hillsburgh On

[Anonymous]

I've been a member of the Model Railroad Club of Toronto (O scale) since March 1999. It was one of the best things that I've done! At that time, my military commitments were over and I now had my evenings free. I was undecided if I would finish building my long dreamed of Hi Rail layout, go back to modelling in HO scale or move into O scale. A few visits to the club convinced me that 2 rail O scale was for me.

Although I've had a life-long interest in trains and have had layouts in various stages of construction, I've never been what could be considered an experienced modeller. At the club I've had the benefit others members experience, the opportunity to observe, practice and learn building techniques, especially doing hand-laid track and companionship. Our club has the very minimum of "politics". Members want to build trains and to operate them in a realistic manner, not argue.

In short, I can't say enough positive things about being a club member and have no hesitation in recommending club membership to other modellers, especially those who want to learn and improve the modelling abilities.

Larry Barwick

[Anonymous]

I've been a member of the Model Railroad Club of Toronto (O scale) since March 1999. It was one of the best things that I've done! At that time, my military commitments were over and I now had my evenings free. I was undecided if I would finish building my long dreamed of Hi Rail layout, go back to modelling in HO scale or move into O scale. A few visits to the club convinced me that 2 rail O scale was for me.

Although I've had a life-long interest in trains and have had layouts in various stages of construction, I've never been what could be considered an experienced modeller. At the club I've had the benefit others members experience, the opportunity to observe, practice and learn building techniques, especially doing hand-laid track and companionship. Our club has the very minimum of "politics". Members want to build trains and to operate them in a realistic manner, not argue.

In short, I can't say enough positive things about being a club member and have no hesitation in recommending club membership to other modellers, especially those who want to learn and improve the modelling abilities.

Larry Barwick

[Anonymous]

the reasons I like this hobby so much is I can go in my train room and do my thing, ,play with the trains , build something, whatever. Dont have to have 3 other people, or a quarum, or a foursome. I can do what I want when I want, no meetings to worry about attending.
So, no clubs no, NMRA for me.

[Anonymous]

the reasons I like this hobby so much is I can go in my train room and do my thing, ,play with the trains , build something, whatever. Dont have to have 3 other people, or a quarum, or a foursome. I can do what I want when I want, no meetings to worry about attending.
So, no clubs no, NMRA for me.

[proberts]

i'm happy with the club i belong to...the vancouver island garden railway club..good people..very loose travel to different houses, good ideas,good help if needed..keep the rails shiney!!!

[proberts]

i'm happy with the club i belong to...the vancouver island garden railway club..good people..very loose travel to different houses, good ideas,good help if needed..keep the rails shiney!!!

[gwjordan1950]

I was a member and past pres. several times from 1986 to 1999 when it disbanded. This was an O-Scale club. While I was in this club I got to be good friends with the ho scale club in Ft.Wayne. I have sinced then joined the club and now am the V-P of it. It's the best time that I've had for a long time. We got to other clubs and have op. sesions. We also have swap meets twice a year as a fund raiser for our club. Our dues are $10.00 a Mo. Here is the info. on the up coming swap if anyone would like to attend. It will be on Oct. 18th,from 10:00 till 3:00pm.Ind. time. It will be held at the Fair building in Grabil, In. Grabil is, just NE of Ft.wayne on St. Rt. 1 to Leo, then turnon Grabil road into Grabil. The Fair building is just South of the bank. Their will be a small cover charge to get in. Please feel free to attend as their will be operating layouts there to observe as well as the vendors with their waresto sell. Gale Jordan, V-P. Maumee Valley R.R. Club.

[gwjordan1950]

I was a member and past pres. several times from 1986 to 1999 when it disbanded. This was an O-Scale club. While I was in this club I got to be good friends with the ho scale club in Ft.Wayne. I have sinced then joined the club and now am the V-P of it. It's the best time that I've had for a long time. We got to other clubs and have op. sesions. We also have swap meets twice a year as a fund raiser for our club. Our dues are $10.00 a Mo. Here is the info. on the up coming swap if anyone would like to attend. It will be on Oct. 18th,from 10:00 till 3:00pm.Ind. time. It will be held at the Fair building in Grabil, In. Grabil is, just NE of Ft.wayne on St. Rt. 1 to Leo, then turnon Grabil road into Grabil. The Fair building is just South of the bank. Their will be a small cover charge to get in. Please feel free to attend as their will be operating layouts there to observe as well as the vendors with their waresto sell. Gale Jordan, V-P. Maumee Valley R.R. Club.

[Anonymous]

been a member of one club for about 5 years and then joined three others to be active in more scales . One club, the Baltimore Area American Flyer club, is the most fun. We have no elected officers. One dedicated charter member handles all the club activity arrangements and sends out a monthly news letter. We have a traveling modular layout which takes two hours to set up, no matter how large, and about a half an hour to tear down so the work level is not excessive. Have 20 plus active members who are at most meets and meetings and probably another 30 who come now and again as time alows. We just like being together and running trains for the public whether at a train show or nursing home or childrens hospital or wherever. Club has no dues if you don't count the self addressed stamped envelopes you provide tor the news letter mailing. S guage is great. Also I run large scale trains at the Sykesville and Patapsco RR INC. G guage is becoming my favorite as my eyes get older. That layout is set up in an old signal tower in the town of Sykesville MD and run the first sunday of every month and open to the public from 1 to 4 in the afternoon. Stop by if you want to find out what being a club member is all about. We run all scales but Z so far. What you will need is a tolerant significant other like I have to be truely involved with running trains regularly, but you can always set your own level of involvement and still enjoy belonging. Great bunch of people with one purpose. Just to enjoy model trains and being able to show off for the public every time you run them.

[Anonymous]

been a member of one club for about 5 years and then joined three others to be active in more scales . One club, the Baltimore Area American Flyer club, is the most fun. We have no elected officers. One dedicated charter member handles all the club activity arrangements and sends out a monthly news letter. We have a traveling modular layout which takes two hours to set up, no matter how large, and about a half an hour to tear down so the work level is not excessive. Have 20 plus active members who are at most meets and meetings and probably another 30 who come now and again as time alows. We just like being together and running trains for the public whether at a train show or nursing home or childrens hospital or wherever. Club has no dues if you don't count the self addressed stamped envelopes you provide tor the news letter mailing. S guage is great. Also I run large scale trains at the Sykesville and Patapsco RR INC. G guage is becoming my favorite as my eyes get older. That layout is set up in an old signal tower in the town of Sykesville MD and run the first sunday of every month and open to the public from 1 to 4 in the afternoon. Stop by if you want to find out what being a club member is all about. We run all scales but Z so far. What you will need is a tolerant significant other like I have to be truely involved with running trains regularly, but you can always set your own level of involvement and still enjoy belonging. Great bunch of people with one purpose. Just to enjoy model trains and being able to show off for the public every time you run them.

[ThatNScaleGuy]

I have been a member of the Kentuckiana Society of N-Scalers (KSONS) for over 20 years now . We are an NTRAK modular club. We all have egos, we all like N-Scale trains, we don't take ourselves too serious, and we all agree "THAT THIS IS FUN, THE MINUTE IT STOPS BEING FUN, WE WILL BREAK UP THE CLUB!!!"
Maybe clubs are not for everyone, but you will never know untill you belong to a club.

[ThatNScaleGuy]

I have been a member of the Kentuckiana Society of N-Scalers (KSONS) for over 20 years now . We are an NTRAK modular club. We all have egos, we all like N-Scale trains, we don't take ourselves too serious, and we all agree "THAT THIS IS FUN, THE MINUTE IT STOPS BEING FUN, WE WILL BREAK UP THE CLUB!!!"
Maybe clubs are not for everyone, but you will never know untill you belong to a club.

[Anonymous]

I am member of Kalmar Modell Railroad Club. The layout we build is H0. We are meeting twice a week for building, driving or just talking trains. We are celebraiting 25 years the 4th of October, so if you are in Sweden that date you are most welcome to visit us.

[Anonymous]

I am member of Kalmar Modell Railroad Club. The layout we build is H0. We are meeting twice a week for building, driving or just talking trains. We are celebraiting 25 years the 4th of October, so if you are in Sweden that date you are most welcome to visit us.

[dmikee]

The club experience greatly expands what I can do in Model Railroading and gives me the energy to continue my enthusiasm for the hobby. Besides, there is the mixing with guys from many different backgrounds and the total absorption in doing something much different that our usual day to day occupations.

The only problem we've had is the need to move our layout every so often as conditions and finances change. Needless to say, we have become more expert at rebuilding than at operating as a result.

[dmikee]

The club experience greatly expands what I can do in Model Railroading and gives me the energy to continue my enthusiasm for the hobby. Besides, there is the mixing with guys from many different backgrounds and the total absorption in doing something much different that our usual day to day occupations.

The only problem we've had is the need to move our layout every so often as conditions and finances change. Needless to say, we have become more expert at rebuilding than at operating as a result.

[Anonymous]

Made inquiries about joining my local club several times over five years, but they were not covering my area of interest, ie SP California, Oregon. Maybe I'm too far away (Australia) to
find many local SP enthusiasts

[Anonymous]

Made inquiries about joining my local club several times over five years, but they were not covering my area of interest, ie SP California, Oregon. Maybe I'm too far away (Australia) to
find many local SP enthusiasts

[cmrproducts]

I have been a member of the Clarion MRR club for 20 years and was there pretty much from the begining. We have survived 2 moves and devastating fire in which we lost over $50,000. But we are down the road 12 years from that now and doing very well.

The membership, which stands at 35, gets along very well and we are rebuilding 4 of our 5 layouts. We have G, O, S HO and N scale plus a hobby shop.

Bob H Clarion, PA

[cmrproducts]

I have been a member of the Clarion MRR club for 20 years and was there pretty much from the begining. We have survived 2 moves and devastating fire in which we lost over $50,000. But we are down the road 12 years from that now and doing very well.

The membership, which stands at 35, gets along very well and we are rebuilding 4 of our 5 layouts. We have G, O, S HO and N scale plus a hobby shop.

Bob H Clarion, PA

[ddechamp71]

I don't belong to any club, as I'm living in France and as I'm modelling North American prototype, that is very rare in my home country (almost all clubs are modelling french/european railroads).

[ddechamp71]

I don't belong to any club, as I'm living in France and as I'm modelling North American prototype, that is very rare in my home country (almost all clubs are modelling french/european railroads).

[aussiesteve]

I used to be a member of a club when I lived in Alice Springs but since moving have I have been unable to locate a new one.

[aussiesteve]

I used to be a member of a club when I lived in Alice Springs but since moving have I have been unable to locate a new one.

[Anonymous]

I am in a club and voiced some of my displeasure by starting the thread "club dedication". Clubs have their good and bad points. I have found that people do not join a club for the same reasons. Some try to rule. Some cry when they do not get their way. Some halt progress.
The club I am in is HO. Lately I have been railroading with a couple of O scalers. There are only three guys in the O scale "group" and around 15 in the HO club. The O scale layout is growing and under constant improvements. Although it is seniced and appears complete, it seems to constantly evolve into a better product. The HO club has grown stagnant and incomplete. Hopefully things will change for the HO club.

[Anonymous]

I am in a club and voiced some of my displeasure by starting the thread "club dedication". Clubs have their good and bad points. I have found that people do not join a club for the same reasons. Some try to rule. Some cry when they do not get their way. Some halt progress.
The club I am in is HO. Lately I have been railroading with a couple of O scalers. There are only three guys in the O scale "group" and around 15 in the HO club. The O scale layout is growing and under constant improvements. Although it is seniced and appears complete, it seems to constantly evolve into a better product. The HO club has grown stagnant and incomplete. Hopefully things will change for the HO club.

[Anonymous]

Since the question asked about clubs only, I figured that a round-robin didn't apply. I've been a member of a local round robin for over a decade and I believe there's several more in my local area. The round-robin is less formal than a Club and where 'members' have a lot of other commitments it seems to work better. Our only piece of paperwork is the calender of meetings (8 layouts, Mon and Fri on a 4 week cycle). It's no big deal if a meeting has to be cancelled or only a few turn up. However, being part of a round-robin sure provides an incentive to do at least something to the layout before its your turn again. Steven Burrows, Sydney Australia

[Anonymous]

Since the question asked about clubs only, I figured that a round-robin didn't apply. I've been a member of a local round robin for over a decade and I believe there's several more in my local area. The round-robin is less formal than a Club and where 'members' have a lot of other commitments it seems to work better. Our only piece of paperwork is the calender of meetings (8 layouts, Mon and Fri on a 4 week cycle). It's no big deal if a meeting has to be cancelled or only a few turn up. However, being part of a round-robin sure provides an incentive to do at least something to the layout before its your turn again. Steven Burrows, Sydney Australia

[Anonymous]

I've belonged to a round robin club in Ohio in more youthful days. Now I belong the West Central Model Railroad Club in Sparta, WI. We have our own building(yes it's paid for). Been a member for over 15 years. I've seen many different people come through the front door, and I've been fortunate enough to learn something from most every one of them. Their a great bunch of guys and I'm proud to call them friends. The best thing about the club is that I could never in my wildest dreams ever build a layout so large and keep learning so much any other way. Draw backs? Only one. My home layout is suffering from neglect. But that's going to change since I've recently cut back on my work schedule so now I've got time for both. Wonderful hobby!

[Anonymous]

I've belonged to a round robin club in Ohio in more youthful days. Now I belong the West Central Model Railroad Club in Sparta, WI. We have our own building(yes it's paid for). Been a member for over 15 years. I've seen many different people come through the front door, and I've been fortunate enough to learn something from most every one of them. Their a great bunch of guys and I'm proud to call them friends. The best thing about the club is that I could never in my wildest dreams ever build a layout so large and keep learning so much any other way. Draw backs? Only one. My home layout is suffering from neglect. But that's going to change since I've recently cut back on my work schedule so now I've got time for both. Wonderful hobby!

[Teditor]

And as you can see, I still havn't learnt how to spell properly though!

[Teditor]

And as you can see, I still havn't learnt how to spell properly though!

[Teditor]

I am the sevreatry/editor of the Darling Downs Model Railway Club Inc. in Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia.
I wouldn't say we are all darlings! but we are a great bumch of guys and gals.
Have been in the club since 1989 and am now a life member, the club has grown from around 20 members and a bank balance of zilch to around 150 members and living comfortable. We have large layouts in both HO and N, both fixed and portable for exhibitions and we enjoy local council and government assistance in part due to our genuiness for the hobby of model railroading.
Have a look at our web site on www.usq.edu.au/users/mesken/ddmrc or email me at [e-mail]
Being a club member has given me years of satisfaction, great cameraderie and the ability to build and operate layouts of a granduer I could never achieve at home.
Politics, disagreements and freindships are all part and parcel of the big package, you only get out what you put in.

[Teditor]

I am the sevreatry/editor of the Darling Downs Model Railway Club Inc. in Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia.
I wouldn't say we are all darlings! but we are a great bumch of guys and gals.
Have been in the club since 1989 and am now a life member, the club has grown from around 20 members and a bank balance of zilch to around 150 members and living comfortable. We have large layouts in both HO and N, both fixed and portable for exhibitions and we enjoy local council and government assistance in part due to our genuiness for the hobby of model railroading.
Have a look at our web site on www.usq.edu.au/users/mesken/ddmrc or email me at [e-mail]
Being a club member has given me years of satisfaction, great cameraderie and the ability to build and operate layouts of a granduer I could never achieve at home.
Politics, disagreements and freindships are all part and parcel of the big package, you only get out what you put in.

[Anonymous]

I've been modeling in HO and now N since my teens. Have never been a member of a club, strange since the metro NJ/NY area is full of clubs. I have thought about it but with my work schedule it wouldn't be fair to me or to the members of whatever club I join. A shame since I feel there is a definite advantage to club membership with all the skills and techniques you can learn, regardless of what you model at home.

[Anonymous]

I've been modeling in HO and now N since my teens. Have never been a member of a club, strange since the metro NJ/NY area is full of clubs. I have thought about it but with my work schedule it wouldn't be fair to me or to the members of whatever club I join. A shame since I feel there is a definite advantage to club membership with all the skills and techniques you can learn, regardless of what you model at home.

[tomwatkins]

I just joined one and attended my first meeting this past monday. Since my job involved traveling every week, it was something that had to wait until retirement. I met a good bunch of people at the meeting. It's going to be fun.

[tomwatkins]

I just joined one and attended my first meeting this past monday. Since my job involved traveling every week, it was something that had to wait until retirement. I met a good bunch of people at the meeting. It's going to be fun.

[chanda]

Way back in 1955-56 , when I was stationed with the USAF at Burtonwood RAF Station, Warrington, England, I was a member of the Merseyside Model Railway Society. Back then if you wanted a particular locomotive you built it from scratch, from the drivers to the motor to drive them. A few of the members were in to 2mm scale and I have some slides of a 2mm locomotive that is being dwafed by a three pence coin ( about the size of a nickle.) The loco ran and pulled a few goods wagons. The track was hand made as well as the switches.

[chanda]

Way back in 1955-56 , when I was stationed with the USAF at Burtonwood RAF Station, Warrington, England, I was a member of the Merseyside Model Railway Society. Back then if you wanted a particular locomotive you built it from scratch, from the drivers to the motor to drive them. A few of the members were in to 2mm scale and I have some slides of a 2mm locomotive that is being dwafed by a three pence coin ( about the size of a nickle.) The loco ran and pulled a few goods wagons. The track was hand made as well as the switches.

[Anonymous]

Been a club member 13+ years now. Took my turn at the helm (whew, glad THAT's over) but havn't regretted a moment of it. From the contacts made in the hobby, to the experiences shared with other members, to the learning we all have shared in, it's all contributed to me growing as a modeler, and the group growing as well. Yes, there are ego's to deal with, as well as differences in what everyone is interested in. So what? It's all steels wheels on rails, ain't it?
KarlB
www.fcsme.org (Come see!!)

[Anonymous]

Been a club member 13+ years now. Took my turn at the helm (whew, glad THAT's over) but havn't regretted a moment of it. From the contacts made in the hobby, to the experiences shared with other members, to the learning we all have shared in, it's all contributed to me growing as a modeler, and the group growing as well. Yes, there are ego's to deal with, as well as differences in what everyone is interested in. So what? It's all steels wheels on rails, ain't it?
KarlB
www.fcsme.org (Come see!!)

[Sydney]

I belong to the Blue Mountains & Nepean Christian Model Railway Fellowship (what a mouthful !), abbreviated to BM&NCMRF (still a mouthful !!), which operates in the beautiful Blue Mountains and Nepean districts of western Sydney in New South Wales, Australia ("Down Under"). We meet on the last Saturday evening of each month at 7.30 pm for about 3 hours and have running nights and train video evenings at different members' homes, with supper and a short Bible devotional at the end - not heavy stuff, and the devotional is always geared to model railroading (e.g. keep on the straight track and try and avoid kinks in your life, otherwise you might get derailed). We are currently joining with the Valley Heights Rail Preservation Society, not so much as to work on the "big boys", of which they have quite a number plus passenger carriages, but to give assistance with their exhibition HO layout. All good fun! We also run an occasional Exhibition ourselves (two so far). We currently have 13 members.

"Sydney" [:)]
New South Wales
Australia

[Sydney]

I belong to the Blue Mountains & Nepean Christian Model Railway Fellowship (what a mouthful !), abbreviated to BM&NCMRF (still a mouthful !!), which operates in the beautiful Blue Mountains and Nepean districts of western Sydney in New South Wales, Australia ("Down Under"). We meet on the last Saturday evening of each month at 7.30 pm for about 3 hours and have running nights and train video evenings at different members' homes, with supper and a short Bible devotional at the end - not heavy stuff, and the devotional is always geared to model railroading (e.g. keep on the straight track and try and avoid kinks in your life, otherwise you might get derailed). We are currently joining with the Valley Heights Rail Preservation Society, not so much as to work on the "big boys", of which they have quite a number plus passenger carriages, but to give assistance with their exhibition HO layout. All good fun! We also run an occasional Exhibition ourselves (two so far). We currently have 13 members.

"Sydney" [:)]
New South Wales
Australia

[Anonymous]

I'm a member of a round-robin type group in my area... one general "business meeting" a month where we discuss group activities, hold clincs and watch videos, plus schedule meetings for the remainder of the month at member's homes. It's a great way to keep up on the latest news, plus see what others in the area are doing. And for me, there's the added benefit of living vicariously through others who have more experience, and more room than I have to build empires in miniature.

[Anonymous]

I'm a member of a round-robin type group in my area... one general "business meeting" a month where we discuss group activities, hold clincs and watch videos, plus schedule meetings for the remainder of the month at member's homes. It's a great way to keep up on the latest news, plus see what others in the area are doing. And for me, there's the added benefit of living vicariously through others who have more experience, and more room than I have to build empires in miniature.

[Anonymous]

I cannot run mainline equipment in my home converted bedroom. It is nice to work in a 3K square ft. room with turns more than 36" radius on hand laid track and throwouts. We are DC with walk around throttles because we started this road in 1978. We are across the street from the Alameda Corridor -- East so there is ample fanning.
We are the Pomona Valley MRC at 132 E. First Street in Pomona CA. I have a key so I can run by myself or with others. Our dues are $25.00 per month. We are open most Tuesday and Thursay evenings.
Lindsay Smith [e-mail]

[Anonymous]

I cannot run mainline equipment in my home converted bedroom. It is nice to work in a 3K square ft. room with turns more than 36" radius on hand laid track and throwouts. We are DC with walk around throttles because we started this road in 1978. We are across the street from the Alameda Corridor -- East so there is ample fanning.
We are the Pomona Valley MRC at 132 E. First Street in Pomona CA. I have a key so I can run by myself or with others. Our dues are $25.00 per month. We are open most Tuesday and Thursay evenings.
Lindsay Smith [e-mail]

[kehoesj]

Anyone looking for an 'O' gauge 3 rail affiliation in Northeastern Wisconsin, feel free to visit with Northeastern Wisconsin 'O' Gauge Association. We have a club layout (modules owned by members) and meet monthly September thru May. Inquiries - direct to N.E.W. 'O' Gaugers - P.O. Box 22, Menominee, MI 49858. We have a great bunch of people and they are very active in club functions.

[kehoesj]

Anyone looking for an 'O' gauge 3 rail affiliation in Northeastern Wisconsin, feel free to visit with Northeastern Wisconsin 'O' Gauge Association. We have a club layout (modules owned by members) and meet monthly September thru May. Inquiries - direct to N.E.W. 'O' Gaugers - P.O. Box 22, Menominee, MI 49858. We have a great bunch of people and they are very active in club functions.

[tankertoad70]

I rejoined a club after ten years of non-involvement, and have found the experience frustrating, challenging and enjoyable.
Frustrating - always a challenge when working with other folks
Challenging - learning new techniques and maintaining a large layout
Enjoyable - meeting all sorts of new folks and enjoying their comraderie

[tankertoad70]

I rejoined a club after ten years of non-involvement, and have found the experience frustrating, challenging and enjoyable.
Frustrating - always a challenge when working with other folks
Challenging - learning new techniques and maintaining a large layout
Enjoyable - meeting all sorts of new folks and enjoying their comraderie

[Anonymous]

I am looking for a club within a reasonable distance from Lady Lake, Florida. We will be re-locating there in October/November. I am interested in HO scale.

Jerry

[Anonymous]

I am looking for a club within a reasonable distance from Lady Lake, Florida. We will be re-locating there in October/November. I am interested in HO scale.

Jerry

[Anonymous]

Ottawa Valley N-Trak club. Great People, great fun.
Kim

[Anonymous]

Ottawa Valley N-Trak club. Great People, great fun.
Kim

[Trainnut484]

I've responded in another thread "Club Dedication" (I think) about clubs. I used to belong to one, but the politics and egos were so thick you could cut them with a rotary arm saw. Politics and egos are for politicians. It's been several years since I've left the club, and don't wi***o join any more clubs.

When my wife and I buy/rent our first house, and I have my layout up and running for sessions, the main "rule" will be Leave Your Ego at the Door. Also, please wipe your feet before entering or answer to the wife LOL[:D]

Take care[:)]

Russell

[Trainnut484]

I've responded in another thread "Club Dedication" (I think) about clubs. I used to belong to one, but the politics and egos were so thick you could cut them with a rotary arm saw. Politics and egos are for politicians. It's been several years since I've left the club, and don't wi***o join any more clubs.

When my wife and I buy/rent our first house, and I have my layout up and running for sessions, the main "rule" will be Leave Your Ego at the Door. Also, please wipe your feet before entering or answer to the wife LOL[:D]

Take care[:)]

Russell

[Anonymous]

I was part of a club for a brief period of time. I found that I really didn't want to devote my only day off (Saturday) to going to the club. Also, I felt that they weren't interested in producing quality looking modules. The modules they took to shows were ratty and beaten up. (Just my opinion and personal observation)

Some of the guys there thought it was great to have a woman in the club, some others wouldn't even talk to me at the club house or acknowledge me at the hobby shop. Some people never grow up.

I can see the advantages of being in a club. If you have different people with different talents then you can teach each other or trade work on modules. It's only when you can't find common ground that the troubles start.

Maybe I'll join one someday, or start one of my own. Who knows?!?!?!

Cheers

[Anonymous]

I was part of a club for a brief period of time. I found that I really didn't want to devote my only day off (Saturday) to going to the club. Also, I felt that they weren't interested in producing quality looking modules. The modules they took to shows were ratty and beaten up. (Just my opinion and personal observation)

Some of the guys there thought it was great to have a woman in the club, some others wouldn't even talk to me at the club house or acknowledge me at the hobby shop. Some people never grow up.

I can see the advantages of being in a club. If you have different people with different talents then you can teach each other or trade work on modules. It's only when you can't find common ground that the troubles start.

Maybe I'll join one someday, or start one of my own. Who knows?!?!?!

Cheers

[Anonymous]

I've been a member of my local model railway club (Sunderland UK) for 17 years now and would recommend everyone to join one.

I've had help with literally every aspect of modelling, from choosing a period, scale and country, construction, electrics, to help in exhibiting my layout.

I've also been able to 'play' on other members layouts in scales and periods which I would not otherwise get the opportunity to do, but most of all I've made some very good friends along the way.

[Anonymous]

I've been a member of my local model railway club (Sunderland UK) for 17 years now and would recommend everyone to join one.

I've had help with literally every aspect of modelling, from choosing a period, scale and country, construction, electrics, to help in exhibiting my layout.

I've also been able to 'play' on other members layouts in scales and periods which I would not otherwise get the opportunity to do, but most of all I've made some very good friends along the way.

[vsmith]

No clubs around my area doing what I'm now doing, 1/2" scale indoors, kinda off the mainstream. Dont know of anyone else doint this in the LA area, they're all outdoors in the weeds. Would be nice to have other contacts that are doing the same thing though.

[vsmith]

No clubs around my area doing what I'm now doing, 1/2" scale indoors, kinda off the mainstream. Dont know of anyone else doint this in the LA area, they're all outdoors in the weeds. Would be nice to have other contacts that are doing the same thing though.

[Bergie]

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