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43 replies

Hello, from a new guy

S SidewinderOGR Forum Member

Forum Members:

 

I wanted to take a minute to introduce myself. My name is Jon; the "forum handle" refers to Shay #7 which resides in Hesston, Indiana. When I was a kid, my parents used to take my brother and I to ride the trains at the LaPorte County Historical Steam Society when visiting my grandparents. The Shay was my favorite; it has unfortunately been a long time since I've had a chance to take a ride.

 

I started in HO trains in grammar and high school (any South Side/Suburban Chicagoan's remember Park Lane Hobbies?), gave it up, started a G scale garden railroad about 7 years ago, sold 98% of that off, now I'm here. I will have to say, this is by far is the most fun I've had with model railroading.

 

About 2 months ago, I took the plunge and began a 12 X 6 Fastrack layout. With two younger kids and a goofy work schedule, the two "rules" I made for myself were: keep it simple and have fun. I read and read this forum and took many of your suggestions. I have an O-60 and an O-48 loop up and running with DCS. I'm now beginning basic scenery, and will tackle my first Ameritowne building soon.

 

So, I think its only fitting that I say thank you to each and every one of you...without this resource, I would still be at square one. 

 

Regards,

 

Sidewinder 

 

 

 

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rtr12rtr12OGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

Welcome to the forum, nice layout and choice of bench work. Looks like you are off to a good start and a bit further along than I am. I'm using the same bench work as you are in a similar size and really like it. Already ordered some extras for it. This is a great place to learn and there are a lot of very knowledgeable folks here that are always willing to help out. Good luck with your layout and hope you and the kids enjoy it for a long time to come.

S SidewinderOGR Forum Member

Again, thanks to all; I'm very flattered. 

 

The basic idea for my layout is a "Chicago theme". Though at this point in my life I'm going for simple, I'm going to try to add details that make sense. The "general" time period I'm trying to model is 1941-1945. I plan on using Ameritowne buildings to recreate businesses that were found in the area: Allegretti's Bakery, for example (Spumoni cake to die for, by the way). Although I was born 24 years after the conclusion of WW2, the time period fascinates me...railroading wise.

 

I have started a small collection of Atlas reefers; for the most part, the businesses are Chicago or Midwest companies. If a road name catches my eye, I will not pass it up because it doesn't belong. One lesson I learned from many of you is: "run what you like".

 

I will certainly keep you all up to speed with pictures.

 

Art: I may try to make it to the Dupage show this weekend.

 

Rich O: Favorite? "Crazy Train" by Ozzy. BUT: when I'm running, Glenn Miller, maybe WDCB on Saturdays (old time radio), or silence if its been one of those days.

 

 

Last edited by Sidewinder
SantaFeJimSantaFeJimOGR Forum Member

Sidewinder -

 

About the Park Lane Hobbies that you mentioned in your original post, is that the same Park Lane Hobbies that is now located in Dyer, Indiana?

 

Here is the link.  http://www.parklanehobbiesonline.com/home.php

 

PS -    I consider myself a South Sider, grew up in Forest View and took the Archer Avenue bus to SOX games as a kid.  Still a SOX fan, living in Tinley Park.

Last edited by SantaFeJim
S SidewinderOGR Forum Member

SantafeJim: The Parklane Hobbies I was referring to was either in Dolton or Calumet City. It was a LITTLE place; not much bigger that 20X20....but it had character. 

 

I grew up in South Holland...I was greatly surprised to discover Atlas made 2 onion set reefers referencing South Holland. I have the "Peerbolte" reefer; my holy grail of sorts will be finding the "Illinois Onion Growers" offering. Currently, I'm up in the NW suburbs....still a Sox fan.

 

I'm going to make more trees tonight...will hopefully post a picture or two tomorrow.

Last edited by Sidewinder
Joe HohmannJoe HohmannOGR Forum Member

My layout was my first, and its been the same size for the past 9 years, and it will not be getting any larger. BTW, it's smaller than yours (only 5x8). It took me over 3 years to do the scenics, right down to detailed interiors in some of the up-front buildings. The whole thing is held up with 4 plastic saw-horses. I, also, have 2 loops of FasTrack, with one siding. My scenics are fairly detailed. Welcome to this Forum!

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