Got a box with what some might call junk, but I call treasure, at the NRHS meeting on the evening of Thursday, 15 November.
One of the interesting pieces was this postwar AF station, in somewhat distressed condition but with all the major components still there:
A bit of cleaning and some Elmers' Wood Glue later, this charming little structure is well on its way to recovery!
After a bit of tweaking and assembling, the erstwhile waif of a station is now complete! Note the station clock above the newsstand operator; that is backlit by the internal light and is one heckuva nifty touch.
Until Thursday night, I was unaware of the existence of the American Flyer 272 station. I'm really glad to make its acquaintance, as it's a very sturdy, personable structure!
This station is simply loaded with nifty details, all done in wood with little period adverts and scale newspapers printed so clearly one can actually read the headlines...
Although this station was apparently built in 1952-53, the Masonite construction reflects WWII shortages of tin, steel and other metals. The craftsmanship is first rate and, once reassembled, this station is one of the sturdiest model structures it's been my pleasure to encounter! Given that one of the canopy pillars was snapped in half when I got it, it took one heckuva hit to dismantle this gem.
I have decided to put the Glendale station in place of the Clarksville station on my layout...
...and also have replaced the prewar crossing gate with a working banjo signal. A mini metropolis makeover!
Norma Bates Kitteh was, of course, interested in the process...
Have no fears for the Clarksville station! That'll be headed for the J. Reilly Mccarren Transportation Museum for the layout there.
The Chic Sale lighting system wasn't really equal to illuminating the interior of the station...
So, a grain of wheat platform light was installed!
The Monkeemobile will be going to the Museum with the station.
Fear not, however. Fortescue has the matter well in hand:
And yes, that is an Indian chief riding a triceratops.
Here's a bit of video of the remodeled downtown section...
Enjoy!
Mitch