Altoona Model Works PRR Signal Tower Build

Well, isn't this timely. I'am also getting ready to do an Altoona Model Works build. Mine is the interlocking tower pictured below. Two of them actually. I just need to take a short break first after just finishing his massive diesel service building.

Your tower is very unique. I've looked at that kit before. I just can't justify anyplace on the layout for it. Your build might change my mind though. I look foward to following your progress. Good luck.

Bob

Bob,

The AMW Pennsy brick tower looks great.  It has been discussed previously on the forum - it's an impressive model.  I didn't choose it since my primary modelling interests are the Pennsy branch lines that ran into NY state (Elmira branch and Buffalo branch).  Small, wood towers were prevalent on these branches (although I have not found a prototype photo for the AMW tower).  The brick tower is more suited to Pennsy main line locations.

The AMW website states the prototype for the tower I'm building dates back to the late 19th century.  It makes sense that very few of these diminutive towers survived into the mid 20th century.  But that's part of the appeal for my purposes.   

In my previous post I stated I had yet to find a protype photo of the AMW model I'm building.  I just came across this site which has several photos:  Pennsylvania Railroad Switch Tower at Radnor – Radnor Historical Society | Archive.

I'd say the AMW kit is a very accurate representation of the prototype!  Note the tower site has an outhouse located next to it - exactly what I planned for my scene since I didn't imagine this period structure to have indoor facilities.  Note that the stock model decking and support atop the first story are a good match for the prototype.  My version with the visible joist structure supporting the decking is not in keeping with the prototype photos, but I like the added detail in any case.   Also, I see no evidence of a stove pipe or chimney on the prototype, and none is included in the AMW kit.  I plan to outfit my model with a coal fired potbelly stove and corresponding smoke jack - winters in upstate NY can get mighty cold and the tower operator would certainly appreciate a source for heat.  I also will eliminate the signal mast and semaphore as that wouldn't be required in the timeframe I'm modelling. 

Your right. That's why I couldn't justify placing it on the layout. I model the Long Island RR which was owned by the Pennsy. Much of their architecture, locomotives and even signals have that Pennsy flavor. All of their lines saw more traffic then a typical branch line. Several of those brick towers still exist today on the L.I. however out of service.

Your tower is from a much earlier and simpler time. It has an almost whimsical look to it. I look forward to following your progress.

Bob

@Scott R posted:

In my previous post I stated I had yet to find a protype photo of the AMW model I'm building.  I just came across this site which has several photos:  Pennsylvania Railroad Switch Tower at Radnor – Radnor Historical Society | Archive.

I'd say the AMW kit is a very accurate representation of the prototype!  Note the tower site has an outhouse located next to it - exactly what I planned for my scene since I didn't imagine this period structure to have indoor facilities.  Note that the stock model decking and support atop the first story are a good match for the prototype.  My version with the visible joist structure supporting the decking is not in keeping with the prototype photos, but I like the added detail in any case.   Also, I see no evidence of a stove pipe or chimney on the prototype, and none is included in the AMW kit.  I plan to outfit my model with a coal fired potbelly stove and corresponding smoke jack - winters in upstate NY can get mighty cold and the tower operator would certainly appreciate a source for heat.  I also will eliminate the signal mast and semaphore as that wouldn't be required in the timeframe I'm modelling.

Any thought on the awnings? I'am asking because the brick towers sometimes used them also and am considering doing the same. Not sure how to go about it though.

@Thirdrail600v posted:

Any thought on the awnings? I'am asking because the brick towers sometimes used them also and am considering doing the same. Not sure how to go about it though.

I don't plan on adding the awnings - too ornate for me.  I do plan to add sunshades to the interior though.  Surely this tower needs some method to block the sun with all those windows on 5 of the 8 sides of the octagon.

Another feature on the model and the prototype is the architectural detail above the windows. I was considering not using that and leaving just the clapboard siding there. However, I just reviewed photos of the former Pennsy tower now at Strasburg and sure enough, that same architectural detail is there.  I may just keep that after all.   

I found it also interesting that there is no evidence of any stairs to access the tower cab on the prototype.  Maybe there is a ladder inside the bottom box structure to access the cab through a trap door in the floor?  In any case, I like the stairs and I'm glad the model includes them.

Also, I believe there is a difference between a "signal tower" and an "interlocking tower."   As I understand it, a true interlocking tower controls a system of switches and signals via mechanical linkages thrown by lever arms in the tower.  A system of throw rods extended along the tracks to translate the mechanical motion of the tower levers to the switches / signals.   It was called an interlocking because the mechanical linkages prevented inconsistent switch and or signal options to be set by the operator.    I believe a signal tower simply had a tower operator to set signals and hand up train orders to passing train crews, but did not have interlocking levers.   I'm not an expert, maybe someone who is more knowledgeable can chime in with the differences...

I'am  also not an expert but I belive you are correct. That's why your model has the semaphore to alert the train crew to stop or slow down to pick up orders. It's also why it's smaller since there is no interlocking machine inside.

Bob