Just saw the John DeSantis video again - still amazed

John's home and layouts/collections will be one of the feature tours for the convention in Pittsburgh June 25-July 2nd, 2017.  Check out more info later at www.TCAconvention.org.  Should be up and running soon...keep checking.  Lots of fantastic collections and tours.  We would love for you to come.

I never tire of watching his collection.

Another way to see his collection in person is during the annual historic homes Christmas tour in early December each year (his home is separate from the main tour and admission is also separate and can be purchased on-site).  The added bonus to seeing it at this time is the beautiful Christmas decorations and atmosphere.  More info on this option can be found on the Allegheny West .org web site.  This is also a great time of year to visit the Carnegie Science Center and its wonderful train layout, and they often have some train-themed features this time of year on their OmniMax screen (most recently Polar Express and Rocky Mountain Express - a wonderful double feature!).  Mr. DeSantis' home is just about a 15 minute walk from the CSC.

Andy

Funny that I read this post yesterday as I had a visitor to my train room yesterday; John DeSantis himself. John is one of the most humble and pleasant people to be around. Plus he has a world class collection of Prewar Standard Gauge trains.

One can look at John's incredible collection and learn a lot. I know every time I am there I learn so much. One thing that many do not realize is that John is in constant learning mode. 

I must admit, one thing I think is pretty cool, as much as John's collection makes us all go WOW... my collection of Modern Era Standard Gauge trains is one that makes John go WOW! That's pretty special to me. 

Im lucky to have John as such a good friend. 

ARNO

I watched part one yesterday, and I definitely went wow a lot. and you are lucky, he truly comes across as a honest to goodness man.

Is there anywhere that the video can be seen other than rural tv?

check out TM Books and Videos, he has it.

Very nice responses.  I'm glad I brought it up.  I actually learned about certain sets just from watching when they scan the walls.  What engines went with what cars.  I could probably watch part one ten more times and learn something new each time.  That is amazing.  I think I said that before.  I love the house too.  I am all in for grandeur, and man, that is one heck of a setup.  

It is breathtaking to be sure!

Peter

I correct that.  I could probably watch this video a hundred times and learn something new.  I just saw he was running my beloved dad's gray and maroon #10 passenger set on a Lionel dealer display layout.  And he likes his 500 freights.  As I do.  Very cool.  I think I could party with this cat.  Can't wait for part two.  Worth putting on 'keep until I erase'.  Cheers,       BK

moderneraSG posted:

Funny that I read this post yesterday as I had a visitor to my train room yesterday; John DeSantis himself. John is one of the most humble and pleasant people to be around. Plus he has a world class collection of Prewar Standard Gauge trains.

One can look at John's incredible collection and learn a lot. I know every time I am there I learn so much. One thing that many do not realize is that John is in constant learning mode. 

I must admit, one thing I think is pretty cool, as much as John's collection makes us all go WOW... my collection of Modern Era Standard Gauge trains is one that makes John go WOW! That's pretty special to me. 

Im lucky to have John as such a good friend. 

ARNO

I think TMBV should do a double feature. Part one is a revist and update of Mr. DeSantis and part two would be your collection.

Tim

That would be a triple feature.  Part II of John DeSantis' is coming up.

TimDude posted:

I think TMBV should do a double feature. Part one is a revist and update of Mr. DeSantis and part two would be your collection.

Tim

Thanks Tim.  I discussed it with TMBV a few years back but it never materialized. Tom at TMBV does not understand the Modern Era Standard Gauge trains. He is a classic Lionel/Ives/Flyer guy thru and thru. Maybe I'll give it another go soon. 

ARNO

Just watched part two.  That is absolutely awesome.  What an incredible collection.  He says he has every normal production item or set ever made, plus all the rest.  All his original prototypes and one offs, so to speak.  That is one dedicated collector.  And I'm sure, a very interesting guy.  Love that house too.  Like I said, truly amazing.