Archive for June, 2011
Model Train Track Layouts Ebay
June 30th, 2011 
dwalton
Posted in Uncategorized 
Tags: model train, model train track layouts ebay, track layouts, train track 
2 Comments »Atlas Model Train Track Layouts
June 30th, 2011 dwalton 
Posted in Uncategorized Tags: atlas model, atlas model train track layouts, track layouts, train track No Comments »Sample Model Train Track Layouts
June 30th, 2011 dwalton 
Posted in Uncategorized Tags: model train, sample model train track layouts, track layouts, train track No Comments »Model Train Track Layouts On Ebay
June 29th, 2011 dwalton 
Posted in Uncategorized Tags: model train, model train track layouts on ebay, track layouts, train track 2 Comments »Model Railway Shops In France
June 29th, 2011 dwalton 
The Meaning of Model Train Scale
Author: Steve Barnett
When you say you are modeling in HO scale what does scale mean and what is the difference between scales and gauge? In model trains began with what was called Carpet Railways. These were built usually out of brass, and were basically a boiler on wheels. The boiler was filled with water and the burner was lit. The engine ran until it ran out of fuel or hit a piece of furniture sometimes turning over and spilling flaming fuel over the floor. These trains had no scale they were whatever size the modeler made them. Electric trains appeared around the turn of the 20th century, but these trains still had no certain size or scale. Even after manufacturers began making commercially produced model there was a difference between model sizes according to the maker. It could be very frustrating to buy the track and maybe the rolling stock from one company saying it was O scale, and buying the locomotive from another manufacture as an O scale. You get the locomotive home and it would not fit your track.
The NMRA (National Model Railroad Association) was formed in 1935 in the USA. They started trying to get a standard set of rules set up to govern the manufacturing of model trains. Also the MOROP was founded in Genoa Italy in 1954 that began setting standards for European manufacturers. The scale of a model is usually defined by the ratio of the model to the real prototype. For example, Z scale in the USA has a ratio of 1:220, with N scale being 1:160, and HO scale 1:87 ratio. Even with these rules in affect there are still some differences in scale. In O scale the ratio can range from 1:43.5 for models in Great Britain and France to 1:45 in Germany and in the USA the ratio is 1:48. Even though you have these different scales in the O, they all run on the same gauge of track 1.25 inches between rails. The chart below gives you an idea of gauge and scale.
Gauge Designation
Space Between Rails
Scale
(fractional equivalent)
Standard**
2.125" (54mm)
1:24**
G
1.75" (45mm)
1:22.5 or 1:20.3
No. 1
1.75" (45mm)
1:29 or 1:32
O**
1.25" (32mm)*
1:48**
Proto-48
1.169" (43mm)
1:48
S
.875" (22.5mm)
1:64
OO
3/4" (19mm)
1:76
HO
.650" (16.5mm)
1:87
TT
.471" (12mm)
1:12TEMPLATE
N
.354" (9mm)
1:16TEMPLATE
Z
.256" (6mm)
1:22TEMPLATE
* O gauge measures from the center of the two outside rails.
** These gauges of track are used by toy trains without much attention to scale. Closest approximations would be as shown, though they can vary quite a bit.
So you see that there is a big difference between scale and gauge. When you begin to model your train layout always make sure that the ratio is the same if you want everything in proportion. Especially when it comes to automobiles and other equipment you need to be careful there is a great range of sizes that claim to be the same scale. Just remember the main thing about model trains scale is to always have fun modeling. For more information you can go to http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/model-train-scale-what-it-means/.
Thank you,
Steve Barnett
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/crafts-articles/the-meaning-of-model-train-scale-2882178.html
About the Author
Steve Barnett is a model train expert. For more great tips on model train scale, visit
http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/model-train-scale-what-it-means/
Lionel Model Train Track Layouts
June 29th, 2011 dwalton 
Posted in Uncategorized Tags: lionel model train track layouts, model train, track layouts, train track 2 Comments »Model Railway Shops Scotland
June 28th, 2011 dwalton 
The First Transcontinental Railroad – a Human and Engineering Triumph
Author: Adam Singleton
Started during the war that divided the United States, the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad was completed after the Civil War and heralded an era of new unity and hope for the United States. But, before the railroad was even started there were many hurdles to overcome, and the fact that it was ever built is a tribute to human resilience and endeavour.
The discovery of gold in California in 1849 suddenly propelled the state from one that attracted little interest as it was considered a barren wasteland into one that people raced to inhabit and exploit. Suddenly, plans for a Transcontinental Railroad that only several years earlier were ridiculed as unworkable and over-ambitious were revived resulting in an 1853 Act of Congress. However, conflicting interests between North and South prevented an agreement being reached on the route. Ironically, it was not until the outbreak of the Civil War that the Transcontinental Railroad became a reality. With Southern opposition removed from positions in federal government as a result of secession, the Senate and House of Representatives passed the Pacific Railroad Acts in 1862 and 1864, which eventually paved the way for the construction of the railroad. Under this legislation the railroads were granted use of building materials and land across 20 million acres and received government support for loans amounting to million.
Groundbreaking took place in January 1863 in Sacramento, California by the Central Pacific Railroad and in December of the same year at Missouri River bluffs near Omaha, Nebraska by the Union Pacific Railroad; sparking a competition between the two companies to see who could finish first.
Both companies had to overcome many problems and challenges, including material and labour shortages, before their momentous task was complete. However, despite all the logistical problems and frequent attacks and disruption from Native Americans, the railroad was completed after six years and is still one of the most momentous engineering projects ever carried out in the continental USA.
At 12:20 p.m. on Monday 10th May, 1869 at Promontory Point, Utah, the insertion of the final spike marked the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad. The official ceremony was witnessed by about 600 workers and dignitaries, a bottle of champagne smashed over a special laurel tie to huge applause and a telegraph was sent to the nation containing one word; ‘Done’.
Once complete, the railroad instantly propelled its western coast terminus at Sacramento to prominence. The future Californian capital had acted as the distribution point for the building materials while the railroad was under construction and once completed saw a massive influx of prospectors and settlers from the East. As a result the city underwent a building boom which led to the construction of many homes, civic buildings, shops and hotels in Sacramento, which were vital to temporarily house the rush of settlers before they decided upon their final location within California.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/the-first-transcontinental-railroad-a-human-and-engineering-triumph-199929.html
About the Author
Adam Singleton is an online, freelance journalist and keen amateur photographer from Scotland. His interests include travelling and hiking.
Model Railway Shops In Kent
June 28th, 2011 dwalton 
Reasons to Visit Kent, England
Author: Devinder Patel
If you want to go see 14th century England then you must visit Canterbury in Kent.
Travel to St Becket's shrine in Canterbury and then hear the tales of chivalry, romance and horror from the colouful pilgrims of Chaucer's period. It has a multi-lingual show and special commentary just for kids is also available. They are open daily but check the details before going by telephoning them in advance.
Canterbury Cathedral had a tradition during the medieval era to welcome every visitor. It was founded in 597 AD and houses the Mother Church of the Anglican community and it has a Romanesque crypt, 12th century quire and some of ancient and best glass windows in the country. In 1170 Thomas Becket was murdered here so it attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is closed or restricted on special occasions and events otherwise its open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm.
Goodnestone Park Gardens are set in 14 acres of garden which also includes two arboretums, woodlands area, walled garden with roses, clematis and many herbaceous plants. A small part was extended in 2000 and a new gravel garden in 2003. Better check its timings before leaving and they do open by appointments also by charging you a little extra.
When England created the Eurotunnel, it excavated 4.9 million cubic meters of chalk marl from the Channel tunnel. This site of 30 hectare is located at the feet of the Dover Cliffs and has breathtaking beauty. It is a popular place for walking, fishing and for those who enjoy the countryside of Great Britain. It is signposted from the A20 west of Dover. and open from 7am till dusk.
Kent's first premier railway ran from Hythe to Dungeness lighthouse via Dymchurch and New Romney running for just 13.5 miles. It is a superb one third full size steam locomotive with comfortable carriages and cafes at Dungeness and New Romney makes your journey a pleasant one that you will never forget. The Model Railway Exhibition at New Romney has gift shops at most of the prime stations and an adventure playground which makes it an exciting holiday for the whole of family. Hythe station is quite close to M20 junction 11.
The Old Lighthouse is a historic Grade II building, recently having celebrated its centenary. It was opened by His Royal Majesty the Prince of Wales in 1904 and it was got ready in 3 years and survived the two world wars before being decommissioned in 1960. For so many years it had guided the various vessels sailing in the English Channel. Access to it is very easy either by A 259 or RH&D Railway to Dungeness.
If you are looking for an out & out adventure then come to The Rare Breeds Farm Park where you can encounter the friendly farm animals, two giant play barns, woodland adventure course, Quiz/Sculpture Trail, summer butterfly gardens and tunnels, aerial runaways and play fort, trailor rides, animal encounter paddocks, countryside interpretation lodge and a walkthrough aviary. M20 J10 on B2067 between Hamstreet and Woodchurch. It is open the whole of the year from 10:30am except on all Mondays from October to March.
There is something for all ages to see in Kent, so visit soon.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/reasons-to-visit-kent-england-648713.html
About the Author
Devinder Patel invites all to see wonderful Kent and if you need a London transfer to get there then he offers on his website London transfers in various vehicles 7 days per week or call the UK Tel Number +44 7956 224 399.
Posted in Uncategorized Tags: airport, london transfer, model railway shops, model railway shops in kent No Comments »Model Railway Shops In Cornwall
June 28th, 2011 dwalton 
Driving a Steam Train
Author: Suie Roberts
So much so, that steam trains were popular in children’s television programmes. Thomas the Tank Engine is probably the most popular, narrated by Ringo Star. Trumpton also featured a little train, the catchy son echoed and romanticised the boyish dream of becoming a rain driver.
Time flies by when I'm the driver of a train,
and I ride on the footplate there and back again,
Under bridges over bridges to our destination,
Puffing through the countryside there's so much to be seen.
Passengers waving as we steam through a station.
Stoke up fireman for the signal is at green.
Ivor the Engine was another much loved steam train, who ran through the welsh countryside with his own distinctive chhh-ta-cuff sound. The magi of steam trains was emphasised with a couple of welsh dragons that had taken up residence in Ivors fire box.
Of course our love affair with steam locomotives started with first appearance of steam trains. The majestic power and beauty of these huge engines boasting our incredible engineering skills and capabilities of the day. The splendour and the speed of these magnificent wonders dazed people; Robert Louis Stevenson decries this wonder in his poem ‘From a Railway Carriage’ in which you can actually hear the sound of the engine powering along -
Faster than fairies,
Faster than witches,
Bridges and houses, hedges and ditches;
And charging along like troops in a battle,
All through the meadows the horses and cattle,
All of the sights of the hill and the plain,
Fly as thick as driving rain;
And ever again, in the wink of an eye,
Painted stations whistle by.
No wonder then that we have model train enthusiasts who hanker over these large, powerful and romantic locomotives, building model railways in the loft, or running larger model rail ways for children to ride on at local parks during the summer months. They want to keep the magic alive.
Of course you can indulge yourself in a romantic Nostalgic Steam Train Journey. Some steam engines are kept in good order for people to travel on. No need to try to recall what an old stream train journey was like, you could enjoy a day trip on a train, and pass on the excitement of steam trains to another generation.
http://www.bigboystoyz.com/drive-a-steam-train.php Keeping Big Boys Dreams alive
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/exotic-locations-articles/driving-a-steam-train-242620.html
About the Author
For More Article Visit :: http://www.thearticleinsiders.com/
Model Railway Shops In Sheffield
June 27th, 2011 dwalton 
A Guide to Fabulous Tourism Activities in Leeds
Author: Krissy Haze
Although it's often overlooked in favour of Manchester, Leeds is a thriving Northern city. it's got a population of almost 450 000 and attracts many business visitors, too.
Thanks to its numerous attractions, Leeds is also a top tourist place.
With some exciting modern architecture and snazzy shops, Leeds has genuinely transformed itself recently. however, there are still plenty of buildings that evoke the city's Victorian splendour, too. an of the most well-known Victorian buildings is leeds town hall, which was designed by the architect Cuthbert Brodrick.
Leeds also has the impressive Kirkstall Abbey, which is located in the western outskirts of the city. This stunning Abbey is thought to be one of the most complete examples of a medieval Cistercian abbey in the uk. It has historical architecture, as well as stunning gardens that are packed with wildlife and greenery.
Kirkstall Abbey was started in 1152 and took more than seventy-five years to build. The historical ruins have been painted by artists including jmw turner and the abbey is now a Grade 1 listed structure. In the summer, visitors flock to see open-air concerts and plays in the captivating grounds of the Abbey.
Regularly named the ‘Knightsbridge of the North’, Leeds is a great place for shoppers! It boasts over 1,000 shops, which include Harvey Nicholls, Louis Vuitton and more, scattered around its fashionable high streets, state-of-the-art shopping malls, Victorian shopping arcades, historic buildings and edwardian markets.
If the hectic pace of Leeds' city life gets to be too much for you, you will be happy to understand that the city has some beautiful greenery, including the award-winning mandela gardens. These beautiful gardens were constructed at a cost of £12 m to commemorate the year 2000. The pretty gardens were awarded a prize at the 2004 chelsea flower show.
If you'd prefer to spend your time doing more cultured pursuits, you will be happy to understand that Leeds has nine fantastic museums & art galleries. These include the armley mills industrial museum & the fantastic leeds city art gallery, so you are positive to locate one that you like.
In addition to wonderful shopping and culture, Leeds also boasts great night life. From elite wine bars and quaint pubs to gay bars and unforgettable clubs, the city truly has something for everyone.
If you'drather have an early night, you will be pleased to learn that the city also has some wonderful luxury hotels, which include quebecs. These hotels offer a real treat, so you cannot fail to get a wonderful sleep and a wonderful breakfast.
So, whether you are visiting Leeds for a fun night out, a glamorous shopping trip or even a cultured weekend away, you will be spoiled for choice by the vast range of exciting things to do. For additional information on things to do in Leeds and the surrounding areas, only call the local tourist information board.
you will find Leeds easy to get to via car, bus, coach and train. trains run from Leeds Railway Station, also known as Leeds City, to the middle of london, Southampton, Bournemouth, Plymouth, Birmingham, Leicester, Bristol, Manchester, Liverpool and plenty of other locations throughout the UK.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-guide-to-fabulous-tourism-activities-in-leeds-463436.html
About the Author
Krissy is a Leeds model, who enjoys showing local tourist attractions in Sheffield and art galleries in Wakefield.
