Was going to look around the forum myself - thanks for posting

Is there a list of venders etc who are going to be there ???

Couple of us are flying up from Charleston SC - visiting with family and then take in the show

Hopefully Mother Nature cooperates - winter in New England 🥶😊

Thx

Joe S

I’m looking for a ride (I’m willing to share costs and driving), or riders (who are willing to share driving), from Queens/LI area, to Amherst and back on Saturday. Email in profile.

I posted an announcement in the Calendar/Event section about a week ago.

2024 Amherst Railroad Society Train Show

For those who have gone to both shows, how does this "Big E" compare to Allentown, in terms of 3-rail O gauge?  I've never been, trying to decide if I should plan for it in the future.  Thanks!!

@Ted S posted:

For those who have gone to both shows, how does this "Big E" compare to Allentown, in terms of 3-rail O gauge?  I've never been, trying to decide if I should plan for it in the future.  Thanks!!

I think it is helpful when comparing shows to get an idea of your goals in attending a show. This question often comes up when comparing the Amherst Railway Society Railroad Hobby Show ("Big E" - just the location) with York. I've only been to Allentown once, but my recollection is that it is geared toward buying and selling similar to York, albeit on a smaller scale. At least I recall going there to buy in the same way that I do when I go to York. You go from table to table looking at rolling stock and engines until your eyes fall out and hope by the end of the day, or two, you found a few things on the list in your pocket.

The Amherst show isn't York or Allentown. That isn't to say I don't buy things as I do and there are a fair number of 3-rail O gauge vendors, but not as many as Allentown and nowhere close to what you'd find at York (unique). Amherst is a great train show though with fantastic layouts in all scales including O, manufacturing reps from many companies, folks from railroad museums and historical societies, model railroad vendors in all scales, other vendors selling books, artwork, clothing, presentations and anything else related to railroads.

I live within 45 minutes of the show, so for the love of trains it is a no brainer for me. It's my favorite show just for the enjoyment of trains. If you are looking to go someplace just to buy O gauge trains, I don't think Amherst is it. They have a decent website that has a vendor list and with YouTube you can find tons of reviews on any of these larger shows to give you a glimpse of what you'll encounter if you attend.

I can't wait... the Springfield show is my favorite day of the year!

I’ve been going for over 30 years. Only once did did I come home with a couple pieces of rolling stock. There is a bit there but nothing on the scale of York.
If your main focus is building a layout or detailing one. It’s a great show. Ross, Mianne, Scenic Express and Woodland Scenics come to mind. There are numerous craftsman kit and detail items that can be found. Crow River, Berkshire Valley, Bar Mills, Tichy Train Group and numerous others. I find it best to do your homework and make a list and as mentioned above. Check out the vendor lists and maps. There’s a lot to cover in a day.

A few years ago I wanted to add a set of crossbucks. After doing some research. I decided to go with Azatrax. They were going to be at the show and it was my planned first stop. Got everything I needed and the gentleman was super helpful. Before PSX circuit breakers were well known. Tony’s Train Exchange who developed them was always there as they have a big DCC presence. I’ve been to York a number of times and always enjoyed it. The hunt was mostly for trains. The Big E is more for all those other things you might need in the hobby.

I’ve got some e mails from a few vendors that are offering show pickup. Saves you on shipping and your sure to not be disappointed if an item they have is not there.

I think Mooner and Dave C have summed up the differences between Amherst and York pretty accurately. My opinion is if you are a modeler and an operator, you will get quite a bit out of this show for the many good points made by these gentlemen.. The realistic work that has gone into many of the layouts displayed there can be very helpful in making your own layout more like the real thing. From viewing the layouts there, I have picked up some great ideas.WhileI am a 3 rail O scaler,and an operator, I find myself enjoying all scale layouts when they are well done. I am sure you will be impressed with how many great layouts are there. Just my two cents worth.

Although it's true that Amherst is a multi-scale show and has a lot of secondary O-scale product such as scenery, buildings and structures, trackage, memorabilia, layouts, videos, etc., it still has enough new and used trains and rolling stock available for purchase to make attendance more than worthwhile. 

Major hobby shops, like Grzyboski's - just to name one, always have a massive selection of product on hand and being able to talk with the manufacturing folks, like Ryan from Lionel, make the show a must stop for me.   

I stopped going when CHARLE RO did. They always had good deal.

Gunny

@Ted S posted:

For those who have gone to both shows, how does this "Big E" compare to Allentown, in terms of 3-rail O gauge?  I've never been, trying to decide if I should plan for it in the future.  Thanks!!

I go to Allentown twice a year. Last year was my first time in Massachusetts. It was incredible. Gives York a run for its money. Here's the video I did.

@Ted S posted:

For those who have gone to both shows, how does this "Big E" compare to Allentown, in terms of 3-rail O gauge?  I've never been, trying to decide if I should plan for it in the future.  Thanks!!

Never been to Allentown but have been to York.  Comparing apples and oranges as others have said.  It depends why you are going.

BTW last year on the way out I noticed a guy off in the corner of a building I had missed prior.  Had 5 Car set of K-Line CP 18" Alum cars in the shipper (new condition).  Price was what I would expect at a "local train show".  I am sure I would have paid about twice as much for them at York.  You just never know.

I love the Big E, and have been there 3 out of the last 5 years because I love the scenery related stuff and layouts there, as well as the trains.

For instance, one year I unexpectedly found and bought the Lionel NY Central Tugboat, which is something I wanted for a long time. At that same show a local model railroad buddy of mine and I went crazy buying other boats and barges that were made by a fine modeler who was a vendor there. Arnold

Note tomorrow 1/12/24 is the last day to order discount tickets for the show. The Amherst society needs time to mail the wristbands.

@Arnold D. Cribari posted:

I love the Big E, and have been there 3 out of the last 5 years because I love the scenery related stuff and layouts there, as well as the trains.

For instance, one year I unexpectedly found and bought the Lionel NY Central Tugboat, which is something I wanted for a long time. At that same show a local model railroad buddy of mine and I went crazy buying other boats and barges that were made by a fine modeler who was a vendor there. Arnold

You mean this guy?

@prrhorseshoecurve posted:

You mean this guy?

Actually, that was not the guy, but I would have loved then to see those boats at that guy's table.

Here is the Lionel NY Central Tugboat that I bought at the Big E:

I think that is a stunningly beautiful model.

I bought it from a vendor who only had one tugboat on his table, that one in the photo immediately above, and I was thrilled to see it on a vendor's table because I thought it was a 1 and 1,000 chance that I would see it at the Big E, the vendor was reluctant to sell it to me, and he did not want to sell it because he bought it that morning and liked it himself.

He ultimately agreed to sell it because he told me he had young children at home and needed the money. Arnold

@Dave_C posted:

I’ve been going for over 30 years. Only once did did I come home with a couple pieces of rolling stock. There is a bit there but nothing on the scale of York.
If your main focus is building a layout or detailing one. It’s a great show. Ross, Mianne, Scenic Express and Woodland Scenics come to mind. There are numerous craftsman kit and detail items that can be found. Crow River, Berkshire Valley, Bar Mills, Tichy Train Group and numerous others. I find it best to do your homework and make a list and as mentioned above. Check out the vendor lists and maps. There’s a lot to cover in a day.

A few years ago I wanted to add a set of crossbucks. After doing some research. I decided to go with Azatrax. They were going to be at the show and it was my planned first stop. Got everything I needed and the gentleman was super helpful. Before PSX circuit breakers were well known. Tony’s Train Exchange who developed them was always there as they have a big DCC presence. I’ve been to York a number of times and always enjoyed it. The hunt was mostly for trains. The Big E is more for all those other things you might need in the hobby.

I’ve got some e mails from a few vendors that are offering show pickup. Saves you on shipping and your sure to not be disappointed if an item they have is not there.

I wonder which vendors are allowing pick-up? I know Trainz is allowing pick-up.

Scenic Express, Micro Mark, Tichy Train Group were a few with show pickup. You did have to have your order in by a certain date.

Extended forecast for Saturday looks good with sun and temps in the mid-40's -

Scenic Express is there!!!!?????  From western Colorado to Springfield, MA???   In January???  After the parade of storms from the Rockies eastward???? 

Gee,...April and October (York) would be an easier truck & tow time of year...IMHO, of course.

Just getting through Buffalo...and Canada...(mid-MI to MA straight shot)  is too much for me in January!!!

Wife and I went to Big E a couple times...many years ago.  Weather was perfect first time.  Next time...not so much.  Our winter trips are mostly southward, now.

Who picked the annual January time, anyway??  Did they end up in a political career, by any chance?

Scenic Express was there last year, in a big way; they had a huge selection of product with them; some of it went home with me. I was surprised that they had such a large selection, given the distance they traveled.

As for January, I suspect it has to do with rental rates for the facility, much like it is for York; it's typically the "off" season for fairgrounds, so I wouldn't be surprised if the rates reflect that.

I'll be there this Saturday..........looking forward to it.

The weather inside the buildings at the Big E is ideal. Can't wait for Saturday.

Looks like Saturday's weather is rounding nicely into form.

Will be staying overnight tomorrow at the QI in West Springfield and heading to the show early on Saturday morning with cash in pocket and bracelet in hand.

Well weather is looking OK for Saturday, getting excited about going!  Is there going to be a meet-up at Ross Custom Switches?  If so what time?

Is the show **worth** going to on Sunday?? I can't make it Saturday but have experienced some two-day events where vendors pull the plug by noon on Sunday and skedaddle. It's about a 2 hour drive, so I thought I'd ask some of you seasoned show veterans.

Thanks! Bob

@endless tracks posted:

Is the show **worth** going to on Sunday?? I can't make it Saturday but have experienced some two-day events where vendors pull the plug by noon on Sunday and skedaddle. It's about a 2 hour drive, so I thought I'd ask some of you seasoned show veterans.

Thanks! Bob

Go out to YouTube and search "Amherst Train Show" and you'll see lots of videos showcasing the event including some from Sunday. I typically go on Saturday but have been twice on Sunday and don't recall vendors packing up early, certainly not at noon. Hard to tell someone to drive two hours, but if you love going to train shows it's a great day to travel.

I usually go on Sunday and take my 80+ year old dad. Easier for him and more enjoyable for me because crowds are smaller. He is an N-scaler and I operate a “carpet railroad” so neither one of us is shopping for collectors items or diamonds in the rough. He usually has a small list of things for his layout under construction, but we go mostly to look at what’s new and see the layouts, which are great. We were there until 2pm-ish last year (in the snow) and I did not notice early pack ups. I’m 75 minutes from Springfield, but my dad is less than 10 minutes from the main gate so it is an easy drive for me with multiple benefits.

Asked yesterday about a group photo at Ross Custom Switches, haven't seen a response.  I am going to hang out there at 1PM tomorrow (think that was the time last year).  Hope to see some of you there.  Happy Trails!

So you all tomorrow can’t wait.

It's Here!

My wife and I got there at 9:00 a.m. for the open. Huge turnout!  Bought about 8 things. Stayed till almost closing. Had a great time.

Got to see everything O Gauge and a lot of the layouts.

We looked high and low for Nassau Hobby who were supposed to be there. We could not find them anywhere in the Mallory building. Maybe we were getting tired.

I had a great time at the show today with my brother-in-law. We arrived shortly after opening and left about 4:15 after visiting all 4 buildings and buying a few tools and trinkets for the train room. An added bonus was a short visit with my friend @Wood, whom I haven't seen in at least a few years.  There were a few very nice prewar items that caught my attention, but I refrained from buying anything big as I'm out of room.

Sorry I missed it. I was going with club members but got a bug that knocked me out.

Boy...after watching a few videos and seeing those looong lines of folks waiting to get in, I'd say "reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated..."; seems the hobby is alive and well...

Mark in (far from Amherst) Oregon

Back from the show (there all day).  Didn't buy a single thing this year.  The one item I was on the fence about, couldn't remember where it was.  Went back to where I thought it was, asked and they told me "no it was not at our booth".  It's a big show, should have written down the location number.  Oh well.

Hung around RCS at 1:00 PM only 3 of us there.

If it sounds like a "wipe-out", it wasn't.  There is always a lot to see and learn.

The show was packed early in the day. Parking lots got quite full.  Wouldn't be surprised if it was record attendance.  Hobby dying?  Sure didn't look like it.  Saw other people buying stuff, including parents for their kids.  So maybe not postwar sales boom, but model trains aren't dead.

Talked to Dave at Lionel.  Lionel is doing well.  Cab3 in Production, should be here in June.

Talked to Scott at Trainz, they are doing well.

The Scaled down version of MTH is doing well, but everything will be built based on demand.

Got some questions answered I had about Blunami.

Asked a few questions at Intermountain I had wondered about.  Likewise at Atlas.

Watched the bascule bridge on the 2R New Haven modular layout open twice.  That 86 year old model bridge is legendary, be sure to check it out.

So feel like it was worth 5 hours of driving.

My almost-ten-year-old son and I arrived at 1 p.m. and spent a little over three hours there. It was his second time going and, just like last year, it was a success. He's into ancient Egypt and we stumbled upon a King Tut Mint car. We also picked up some O-scale crates to put in his scale-sized box cars and MTH Difco dump car. When we got home, we had dinner, and then headed to the layout to run trains.

I think I have been a half-dozen times and this was definitely the most crowded, especially the Mallory building. It seems like there were more layouts than ever. We stopped by Trainworld; they are just the nicest, best representatives of the hobby. Their energy and excitement is contagious. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad had a booth! It's always great to see Trainz. I'm sure I missed a bargain there.

@endless tracks, it's definitely worth going on Sunday. In my experience it has been more less-crowded, but all of the vendors have been there.

Another "great day" post. Did some railfanning up in East Deerfield to start off the morning and got to the Big E around 11:00 AM. Definitely the biggest crowd I've seen at Amherst. Many families and couples in attendance - a happy lot. There were some fantastic layouts in the Mallary Building of all scales and if you wanted to do nothing but peruse the layouts it would be worth going. Some of the modular displays were basic, but others were fantastic and a marvel to study. A few favorites included Reading Company Technical & Historical Society (HO farm and coal mine), Dry Hill Model Railroad Club (HO Providence & Worcester yard, signal system), Hudson Valley Large Scale Railroad Club (CSX G scale highball), and the busy Lego display (Lego B&M passenger set was beautiful). There were several other phenomenal layouts. You could easily spend a half-day just checking out the layouts.

While I don't measure my enjoyment by what was purchased, I do go to a train show with the intent of buying something. Not sure the shows survive otherwise and it sure is fun to buy. Having missed out on the recent Ameri-Towne sale I was thrilled to find 3 kits for a great price ($25 each) from a fine gentleman from Maine. Woodland Scenics had several show specials including 24 foot roll of track bed for $10; I bought 2 rolls for a future layout.

We ended the day going over to Bridge Street to catch a couple of real trains heading west (Amtrak and CSX manifest) around 4:00 PM. There was at least a dozen other railfans there all having just come from the Amherst show. Those I talked with had a great time at the show!

As mentioned it is quite a hike for Scenic Express from out west. I bought a couple of items. I only passed by their area a few times. There was always a line checking out. They were always fairly busy at York when I use to attend and they carry a good amount of O scale. But you have to factor in all the other scales that are attending this show that maybe are more into scenery than O gaugers. I think they do more than all right at this show to make the trip.

My one disappointment. I had a list for Berkshire Valley Models. Mostly detail castings. They use to be a fixture at this show and also the local TCA meets. The owners were from western Mass. . The new owners are from I believe Colorado.  This is the first time they attended. They brought a fair amount of product. But most of the castings were HO. or O scale kits. But I get it. There’s probably only a handful of O scalers looking for this stuff.

A few tidbits on Scenic Express, their display racks are stored here by a friend who even trucks them here, a container unit brings and or holds the product from PA ( still warehousing there ) and Jim and wife fly from Colorado arrive on Tuesday prior and leave following Tuesday.