The Shelf Layout | The Whimsical vs The Prototype
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- Опубліковано 22 сер 2024
- This is a short commentary (with a roll-by), on The Whimsical vs The Prototype when we model railroads coupled with life experiences as a passionate motivator.
Music: UA-cam Audio Library: Come With Us - Nat Keefe & Hot Buttered Rum & Cowboy Lullaby.
I'm on the other side of the Atlantic, not at all familiar with the railroads of North America, but thanks to the great individual and overall effects you've created, with just one quick glance at your layout I was immediately "there" and totally immersed in the scene.
I'm only just starting out really, but have found myself being held-back somewhat by my fears of not being able to model to the often painfully exacting standards I've seen at exhibitions where, instead of feeling inspired, I've been left feeling rather cold and deflated by the almost clinical approach that some take to this hobby.
Each to their own I suppose, but I really like your approach and philosophy, so thanks for sharing so openly. I'm inspired!
I love your comment Beacher,
I can remember the days of competition at the scale model shows when I was fortunate to walk away with all the "Best of Show" awards (in my vibrant egotistical youth). I was scared stiff of all the competition. I tease my wife about it . . . "You married me because of me, not the model right?" She just grins and goes silent . . . lol.
Anyway, My approach was, "I don`t care about the clinical approach that some take in this hobby." I finally decided, after feeling cold and deflated, I would just throw caution to the wind and have fun. It was the competition and the ego which almost killed it for me. It`s never been more fun since. Forget all that Beacher. Just go for it and have fun - Boomer.
@@boomerdiorama Thanks for your reply and encouragement Boomer.
It's very windy around my part of the world today, so I'll go chuck some caution at it and see what results :-)
All the best.
@@TheGra1959 Cheers.
Great video. Reminds me of something I heard once: "Give yourself permission to have fun with your hobby." If you can't have fun with it, it's no longer a hobby, but a chore. Make it fun for you!
Well you raise a good point Joey. We almost have to make a conscious decision about that each time we approach the hobby. I think if we just show what we have we can let the expression of the layout and model speak for itself, remain humble and try to encourage others to do the same. This is ultimately better for the community as a whole because it cultivates unity . . . not division. Its hard to unite but easy to divide. Cheers.
best thing I ever heard from an " Old timer " years ago , "It's my railroad", I do what makes me happy" that's something that get's lost on a lot of people in my (opinion) lol we need to have more fun and less worry, "don't be anal your whole life" is my take on the situation.
I agree. It is also a good thing to share opinions and reviews without having an obligatory fan -boy bias just because one is compelled by a monetary perk. Anything I say about a product is my subjective opinion based on an ergonomic experience. No one paid me to say it - Boomer.
To operate a layout is a thing in which you have your personal experiences AND some of a semi prototypical location. That was lovely!!
Thank You. This is the beauty of model railroads. The scope of operations and scales offer something for almost every class of people when you think about it.
"Convertible big block Chevy"- hard to top that with a 'cone'. Great comment. You sold me with that. Great page, thank you!
At the time . . . I wasn`t into trains though . . . if you know what I mean . . . lol.
@@boomerdiorama I get ya, loud and clear! Haha
Back in the mid 60’s I would go to the Dairy Queen after school, get a 20-cent Coke and head south another block to the Pennsylvania RR mainline between indianapolis and St. Louis. About three days a week a local out of Indy would show up and work its way east to Richmond. The Spirit of St. Louis would usually arrive in late afternoon pulled by E7s. All of that is gone now, it’s just the “Pennsy Trail”. I’ve often thought of modeling my hometown and you may have just given me the confidence to do it.
Wow! What a memory and incentive to model a small shelf layout upon. It sounds like you really have something there. This is the same motive and experience which began Glover Road for me. The whole experience turned out better than I thought, especially when I began to research things close to home as well. Thank You for sharing that. I hope you do it. Cheers.
I'm glad you preach that whimsical has a place in the Model Railroad hobby.
It most certainly does! Cheers.
To me whimsy is an essential part of imagining. And more importantly it's your memory that your evoking, which makes it personal. Moreover how you remember something colors everything.
Wow! What a humble and wise statement. I couldn`t have said that any better myself. Bravo.
The best part of you is honesty based on experience. I think that if you go into any city that is not yours you begin to see the stuff that just doesn't fit but does. The DQ fits I feel because it's your reality and it's your story. When I finally build my shelf layout I'm using industries in my area they will be together but its not the prototype but they are the prototype. This fits in my proto freelance idea. I also based on one of you videos I have went back in on one of my first locos I weathered with 90% and wow it has opened up my eyes to a whole new project and got me super excited.
Wow! You make everything I do on this channel worth it with a testimony like that. I am so glad that you are inspired to create your own railroad and have fun doing it. It is probably one of the greatest hobbies in the world. Cheers.
In my years of watching trains it seems like there's a prototype for almost everything. Especially when it comes to buildings and their environs in the parts of towns and cities where trains occur. Without the DQ sign that building could be anything. It could have been a former DQ in better times, and maybe now it is a used car sales office or a bike shop. Awesome layout!
Thank You Michael. Great insight on the possibilities which often evolve within the process of our modelling. Especially when we let loose the reins of assumed standards. I am always blown away when I witness scenes I never thought possible to exist in the real world. A gentleman made a really insightful comment awhile back (unquote), "Our imagination fills in the blanks through the power of suggestion." I think he was referring to a blank backdrop for example. Cheers.
Awesome touch on reality. Steve Brown says it best..."its my railroad".
Thank You. That`s the trump card for sure . . .
for me when I started with model trains probably nearly 50 years ago, it was a TRAIN. I watched it go around. it stopped at a make believe station doing what trains do. (likely just a straight rail). can't remember my first train, may have been a neighbours hand me down hornby O. not even the same country, steam whatever. but it did it for me. as I got older different scales, more diligent modelling striding for the prototypical realism etc. I've changed a bit now: cruising along building an HO layout (new scale for me) but I suppose it's the layout based on what I knew and liked of trains as a youth. static grass, sweeping curved station (just a small one) but it's encapsulating thrilled me back then. and I miss that escapism more than I realise I think. great video, phantastic philosophies. thank you Boomer.
You are welcome. Good stuff. I can remember growing up poor, but yet my parents had it all . . . (as I scratch my head). I would build little farm scenes in the garden with the old "corgi" toys and such. Then one day as kids, my brother and I snuck through a neighbors basement window into an unbelievable Lionel Model Train Layout that just blew me away! As we were sneaking about and taking it all in, the owner came home and I escaped (like I always did) . . . lol . . . and my little brother got caught as I looked over my shoulder in full flight. He got a lashing. I never forgot it. I still sneak into my room with the layout when my wife isn`t looking, except I don`t lashed for it . . . lol.
Thank you so much! I have been struggling lately with why folks weather and distress thier structures and equipment so much when looking at the era they are modeling in, those things were practically new!! I love Dave with the ThunderMesaStudio and Jason Jenson but was confused when I looked at some Hard Core DRG narrow gauge models that also distress and weather. Admittedly, I am a history buff and know how short of time some of the mining and logging actually took place and in most cases, not long enough to make things look that bad.
Yes, I am one of those that tend to pick apart movies and yes, my wife and daughter hate it.
Thanks for keeping a fun hobby in perspective for me! I just need to lighten up!
Try working in movie production. You will never view a film in the same way again. You are correct with weathering "period specific" weathering philosophy. Some times we can over do it. But it is fun and teaches alot about painting.
Sir, your commentary and modeling perspective are excellent! You are able to achieve a balance in imagination and realism, which to me, makes it successful visually. The photography is a wonderful vehicle, especially today. Thank you for the work!
Thank You Mike. It`s compliments like this which make the content worthwhile to you and my subscribers.
I won't be able to do a layout, even a shelf one; don't have the money and more importantly, don't have the space, nope, not even for a shelf layout. I appreciate what you have said regarding prototype and whimsy. Life, actually, in my experience, is a little of both, and that is what makes it so interesting.
Thank You for your kind comments despite your unfortunate situation. I`m sorry to hear you don`t have the resources to have one. I hope in some minimal way I can help transport you into the Glover Road Diorama, in some small way, if it is only for a moment. I wish you well - Boomer.
You had me at "I hopped the train to Squamish" 😅
Practically grew up around there. ;-)
Thank you so much for that mismatch coupler height photo of that locomotive. I've been a little bummed about getting my loco back that I had custom work done to and the coupler height didn't exactly match up with an adjoining car. I didn't know that that could ever be a possibility, even though I was told that sometimes these cars and locomotives come from the manufacturers with these kinds of defects. I feel much better now having seen a prototypical photo of this being a possibility. Thank you!
My pleasure. Throughout my present roster I have mismatched couplers everywhere. I never stress over coupler height guage, just the style. I wish Kadee was the standard on every model though. Cheers.
At some point we are all guilty of modeling around an idea that may not blend with the rest, but we hold that idea close to our hearts , it provides us both with inspiration and the quality of being a unique human being. Thanks...
I hear you, but I don't aspire to the term "guilty of" anymore. Absolute prototypical modeling is unattainable in the realm of the individual who keeps pushing the envelope beyond their own obsession. It`s a vey slippery slope and I knew some of the best modelers in the world . . . I mean "real" model makers, not model builders who think they are legends in their own mind. They all told me stories how they burned out eventually and lost interest all together because of the self imposed stigma of perfectionism. Cheers mate.
Great video once again and a great explanation of model railroading. I believe in 'Rule No.1', it's your layout, build it as you wish, run what you want, regardless of what others may say ! This is a hobby and is meant for enjoyment !!
Cheers, Gary.
Thank You. I agree with you. Nevertheless, it is constructive and edifying to talk about it though (in a greater context) without dividing the community. We all share the hobby in unique ways at the end of the day. Cheers.
The beauty of our chosen hobby is, you can enjoy it from one extreme to another. IE: setting up/taking down track every time you want to run trains, to modeling a specific era, place, time of year, or day, with specific rolling stock and locomotives. The bottom line is try not to take our hobby too seriously, be happy, and satisfied, with what you are doing.
Sounds good. Hard to do for some though. I can tell you are having fun with it Tim. Cheers.
Thanks for the insight. Since I was a kid I built scale models and dioramas. When I discovered train layouts I saw them as larger and more artistic means to create multiple scenes. I like to incorporate both something I have seen and something I envision. The train is the moving part of the entire thing. On that aspect I am learning how railroads function. Very fascinating. Thanks and Cheers 🍻
You are welcome and you nailed it buddy - Boomer.
Love your approach and attitude to this issue, I tend to be a rivet counter, and can't tell you how many times I have stressed over and been halted by the scale/reality issues.
I found you approach and the introduction of the whimsical such a breath of fresh air, it has changed my views and approach to modelling, thanks you so much.
I get the "Rivet Counter" indictment. I used to be one, because I had to be, due to competition and the associated economics of the craft when I was in business. I still respect those who count the rivets. I only apply or ignore the philosophy where I can get away with it . . . lol. Cheers.
As I've heard many times before is perfectly imperfect, and that's the REAL WORLD. Personally, I like whimsical mixed with what you have and that's real life experiences to model from. There's nothing, absolutely nothing wrong with what you showed in my mind. Honestly, I'm jealous - it looks awesome.
Back in the day when I used to model for nit-picky clients who counted every rivet, it drove me nuts.
The latter changes everything, no matter how good you think you are. Now. I just want to have fun and let my modelling fall where it may. Thank You for the compliment. Cheers.
I too have a lot of memories on my layout. Thank you for sharing yours
You are welcome Mr. Jones. Cheers.
Awesome work, modeling, and docu- commentary! I subscribe to the belief that a great model railroad is all about creating an illusion (usually - but not always - of things that have inspired its creator). From John Allen and Allen McClelland to yourself, each - and other greats over the years too numerous to mention - came to understand that satisfaction and success is achieved by asking one simple question. This question applies universally to skill levels of all ranges. It is simply, "Have we captured the essence?" I believe you certainly have. Cheers, and Thank You for sharing this amazing journey!
Thank You Patrick! Are you aware of the latest 'River Road' build as well. It starts here under videos: ua-cam.com/video/5tVBtTbr1mM/v-deo.html
I model for the experience, build to learn and never put limits on creativity.
😁
Good discussion Boomer. I agree, the layout for these times should be about artistic license and having fun.
Yes, especially for these times in light of the present culture. Thank You - Boomer.
That’s a great looking shelf layout!
Thank You. Initially I never envisioned it this way. It just sort of took on a life of it`s own when I decided to share it with the online community. Cheers and welcome aboard! - Boomer.
I think at the end, at least on my case, when we work on a layout we are not trying to model reality but an idea of reality. Granted you can model specific items to look like the real thing, like a diesel engine or a box car with all the details, bells and whistles, but when it comes to landscape in general we have to use techniques like selective compression but yet retain the character of what we are trying to represent. On the whimsical part is very similar, we try to represent an idea of our own reality and our own memory and combine thar in our own layout. Key words there are 'our own'.
One of the things that for me, in particular, is fulfilling is that you can combine that selective compression with our own memories of places and put them together they make sense to us. They may seem odd to somebody else but what we see on it is what makes it all worth it, and when there is a story behind of what we are trying to represent the better.
Wow! How well put your analysis is of my model railroad commentary. You really nailed it - Boomer.
Yeah I like second-class railroad the weeds and such like that definitely perfect on railroad like yours.
You nailed it. Even then, the odd class one locomotive, or even a restored steam excursion could slip through the scene as well. Lots of options for the model railroader who only needs a glimpse of their miniature world after a busy day at the office, etc. Cheers.
This channel is very helpful for me. I’m trying to figure out how to approach a layout from a more theatrical perspective. Thank you for taking the time to post these videos.
Glad it was helpful! . . . and you are very welcome. Cheers. ~ Boomer.
Another great video, i do agree in articles about coupler height and if there under or over nmra weight. I'm in stages of planning à layout , I have a large spare bedroom but i kind like the idea of maybe a switching layout, then slowly add on. I like the dq , I can easily see in a city easily could have been a taxi cab office,or pizza joint. Keep videos coming ,I never really thought about color of buildings and composition, learning alot from these videos, thanks I do love dq ice cream
Thank You. Nice thoughts on the rather limited DQ space in question. I love the DQ ice cream as well. Although, some how it`s doesn`t taste the same as I once remembered it. But then nothing does anymore . . . lol. Cheers.
Absolutely love your thoughts & outlook on building a layout. I'm from Australia & I was almost going to build a huge layout because I've got the room but then I came across your channel, totally changed my mind mate! Now I'm in the process of shrinking it down to a shelf layout, probably about 9x2. Anyway great vids keep up the good work. Cheers Brian Brooks
Go for it! The space available should never dictate scale as much as it does the scope of things. Neither does a smaller scale enlarge the space. It's all in how you personally view the railroad you determine to build and this will grant fulfilment in whatever subject you choose to model around it. I like the idea of detail density with a story in the smaller footprint, over mass obscurity, which is so common with overly ambitious and larger layouts. Cheers.
Thanks for taking the time out to share your thoughts. Unfortunately, just like most aspects of life people find a way to separate and compartmentalize even in this hobby. I'm sure many have left the hobby because of it. I think there is value in all the different scales and levels of modeling within our hobby. Some of those I'm simply not interested in but many I have "stolen" from for the mere creativity of it. As I have said many times before, we all have gotten in this hobby for different reasons. Some for nostalgic reasons, some for sentimental reasons, and others to have a sense of accomplishment. Ultimately the end reason is for the fun of it, which is most important. I, like you, can appreciate the "constructive criticism" but when it's in the name of someone else's way of modeling verses being within the context of an individuals form of expression, it's distasteful. OK, I'm done :)
Thank You as well. The primary focus of this channel is to encourage people who have maybe been discouraged from what you just articulated, "individual form of expression." What I do is the same exercise everyone else attempts, or does as well. The beauty is what comes out in terms of the creative process when we just do it. Cheers.
I’m building my first layout, SP in n scale. I’m doing what one may call protolancing, pretty much what you are talking about. I’m combining my favorite memories and aspects into it. All scenes will be reminiscent or at least based around scenes that really exist. As long as when you look at it you see a convincing 70’-80’s Southern Pacific I’m happy.
"Protolancing," I love that term. So fitting in the context of artistic license. I have a soft spot for the Southern California SP look for a diorama. Mojave Junction comes to mind. Good stuff - Boomer
@@boomerdioramathe first movie I remember watching is Steven Spielberg’s “Duel”. I remember seeing a couple high hood geeps and Cadillacs mixed into the consists and I was interested in them because I was only familiar with low nose engines. Both the movie and high hood SP units have remained my favorite 19 years later I decided it’s time to make my dreams a reality. I’m making a N scale truck and car to complete it
@@boomerdiorama I had to get over the whole rivet counter expectations and accept that it’s my railroad, and have fun and combine my favorite things into 1 model railroad
@@boomerdiorama I’m sorry, I got sidetracked... I love your shelf layout-diorama-model railroad! Looks convincing to me, track-work scenery and details. If someone is unhappy with your layout they are more than welcome to do things however they want on THEIR model railroad! Much respect for all the recycled materials you put to use, waste not= want not.
The DQ is out of place, but an active Burger Joint - own by a family - is totally in the right place. I think there is lots of potential there.
Yup. But I like the DQ for now anyway . . . Cheers.
Your channel has really blown up Warren, and it's well deserved. Good stuff
Hey Tom, long time no see or hear. Thank You. I appreciate your service as well. I hope all is well with the family and your business - Boomer.
We model to keep the interest of people. Whimsical perhaps but we have accurate Canadian history pieces to teach history to open minded people who will listen. In the same breath there a Wonka factory on the layout. Your in the right spirit.🚂🚃🚃
We do model to keep the interest of people. After all it is about community. Almost everything we do requires it. And yes, the Wonka factory applies as well. Cheers.
Another interesting discussion. I can see where someone would think the DQ looks out of place. Personally, I like it. But it needs the sign... help tells the story. I am in a loco buying mode while I have extra money. Rolling stock next ... I have one box car 😀. I have to make sure the rolling stock makes sense for the traffic, shippers and receivers on my layout. Laters!
It is out of place in a logical sense but then so are many other scenes we have not seen yet. It is surprising how often we can come across quirky building situations. I'm O.K. with it for now as well. Cheers.
Love what you ve been doing, think it s called sharing. Great stuff, brings back lots of childhood memories ,
Your fire side chatts I mean. Love to share some with you. Cheers
I appreciate that. It`s fun to reminisce in the context of our hobbies, arts and crafts. I don`t know why but I always found myself building a model all through life and into subsequent careers. I was blessed with much prosperity because of it. Then I crashed and burned. When I returned after a short hiatus, I had to reinvent myself in order to join the ranks of the common community I alienated myself from because of my selfish hubris. Strangely, the channel has helped me reform the error of my ways in a good way and now I just want to pay-it-forward in a practical way. I hope that makes some sense . . . lol. - Boomer.
@@boomerdiorama Canadian Boomers have been profoundly impacted by our railroads.
As a young child I traveled the CNR mainline in northern Ontario as one of the only ways to get
To the grandparents summer cabin. Got to watch Grandpa flag down the Super Continental,
Mind blowing for an eight year old, got to sleep over on the Local when stopped by a tornado
Taking out the mainline, got to stand up close and personal with 400 tons of trembling steal
In the last stand of the steam while Gramps asked if I had ever seen a wheel that big before.
I even got hauled up into a brand new geep 9 just for looking at it while waiting for the local to
Be put together . The most impressive memory though ,the whistle of the big mainliner in
The middle of the night. Nothing like it today.
I am familiar with the location of your layout, recognized it right away, a tribute to your skill.
Thank you so much for what you are doing. My God son now has his own shelf layout to keep
Him amused during these strange times. He is now following you.
All the best.
@@fredpincock3319 Thank You for that Fred, especially the eloquent story of your childhood experiences on the railroad. You took me there in the theatre of my mind. Glad to hear your God son is learning a great hobby which promotes problem solving in the most engaging way. Cheers.
Great video! I model things I like and things I’ve done or experienced and stuff from life’s past or something that reminds me of a time or person in my life
That's the same source of inspiration for me. Art and modeling works that way. Thank for sharing! Cheers ~ Boomer.
Really interesting and detailed urban siding.. Thanks
Thank You. I'm thrilled by it as well. Cheers. ~ Boomer.
Outstanding video and commentary!
Glad you enjoyed it. Cheers.
Well after 20 some odd years with a local model railroad club (which was dismantled a few years back) I finally have started my own layout here at the new house. First instinct was to stick with what the club had, I almost went there. But decided to do something new or as you say whimsical!! I want people and friends to have fun and find things in the layout !! Thanks for the great video!! No prototypical here!!
That is awesome! All the best to you on your new and exciting venture. Think small and play big. Cheers.
stumbled on your channel and wow I enjoyed listening to your well pointed view... Rule no1... 👍🏻🚂🚃🤠Neil from France
Welcome aboard Neil! Cheers - Boomer.
Well said Boomer, I completely agree. I try to capture the overall feel of the area that I model. The place on the planet where I feel most at home. Through a few prototypical accurate scenes I can set the geographic location and let the remaining 75% of the layout support the overall effect, even if it's not proto specific. Cheers! -grant
This particular layout is really just an exercise for the next layout I have planned. It will all come down like a movie set eventually anyway. It sort of turned into a demo at the the outset. Nevertheless, it`s been a great learning tool (after a lengthy hiatus) for myself and the community which I feel pleasantly obligated to continue. Thank You for the comments and congratulations on the 1000 sub mark. You deserve it. Cheers.
I've been going back and watching all your videos, and I love your work! I also love everything you've done with this layout.
With regards to coupler height, on a fixed layout like yours, where you have a fairly level surface with well-laid continuous track, being a little off isn't a problem. You are 100% correct in that case.
However, the standards for coupler height are there to help ensure standards across everyone's model railroads, including club layouts and modular layouts. When we, as a club, bring a bunch of modules together, sometimes there are slight variations in track height, gaps in the rail, and other such inconsistencies which are difficult to account for across modules built by a dozen different club members.
Yes, you could force club members to be more precise with their carpentry and track laying, but at some point, you are pushing members far beyond their skill level and/or physical capabilities, and effectively losing model railroaders.
What's far easier to control and correct? Coupler height. A washer or two, or perhaps even replacement trucks and couplers, are inexpensive and easy to replace. A coupler height gauge is a small one-time expense. And if you have one car that doesn't want to cooperate, you replace it with another. It's much harder to fix a module or layout.
I am certain that the real (prototype) world has differences in coupler height, and I'm also certain that there are tolerances (plus or minus an inch or two) that allow for variance, but I'm also certain there are standards which apply, and if not met, a car would be set out for repair before being pulled.
I never seem to have coupler issues much. I guess I take it for granted. Thanks for sharing.
This is a remarkable layout.
Thank you. It was a fun build. A great way to get into the hobby with limited space. ;-)
It's your railroad. Do what you want. People that complain about others layout have no idea and should keep there comments to themselves. Keep up the good work. Enjoy !
I won`t deny what you wrote is the go-to-defense when someone disagrees with the whimsical approach . . . It`s the trump card . . . Lol.
Looks great right where it is! I hope to have fun with my layout
You will young Skywalker . . .
funny that you mentioned that comment ! i read the comment when you published the video and thought each to there own.
He does raise a good point. But there is always a context for each individual when a decision is made on the personal railroad . . . lol.
Brilliant video, what we’re trying to do is capture something, a memory or a feeling - to some extent I like to try and recreate details as closely as I can (if I can, but even then I’m selective) but there comes a point where you have accept everything is abstracted to some degree or another.
I’m from the UK but have spent a fair bit of time in the US and Canada and there’s something about North American railroads that I love and capture my imagination in a way that British railways don’t (not that I don’t love them).
So now I’m building my first proper layout (I’ve been a wargamer and terrain builder for 25 years so hopefully have some transferrable skills) that feeling is what I’m trying to capture a bit of. And I like short lines in particular, so there’s things about those I want to capture the essence of. At the moment I only have enough space for a small shelf layout so I’m just doing one industry, and because I’m still learning how ‘prototype’ operations work I wanted to build it as an inglenook too so I can do something at least while I learn - I found a real world example of an almost perfect inglenook in a real world industry (as you were saying pretty much everything exists somewhere) and I’m using that as the basis for my layout. Again I’m going to be compressing stuff and moving stuff around, so it will all have real world references just not in a single real world location
Sounds great. All those skills you have acquired transfer beautifully to the shelf layout. You won't miss a beat. ;-) Here is the new build - River Road: ua-cam.com/video/XlvZCkgVwKw/v-deo.html
You are truly right i thought you can model what you want I mean you buy it you do what you want hay i don't have the money to buy All the things I want but i have no we need to thank you for this video All of them have helped me.
You are welcome. Freedom of expression has no bounds. The modeler can choose what they want. Although, it's the undefined prototype which inspires us in most cases.
;-)
My next and probably final RR I’m building is based on the E.L. And D&H , I have done research on both railroads and I was very surprised at what I have seen on the prototype , things that the RR did that I never thought they would do. The way certain bridges were built like truss bridges with the sides staggered to match the river banks instead of being square and even ( Hancock NY) or even the way certain tracks are arranged. I think it’s when we do it in miniature it just doesn’t look right and so we don’t think it would be done on the prototype. One industry off the D&H was actually an oval off the main line. When looked at on google maps it looks like a small oval track layout with an industry in the center. The D&H Colonie yard (Albany NY) had a return loop on one end for turning locomotives around and there was a turntable. It’s really nice doing research seeing what is on a real railroad, it’s a great deal of help in creating your own railroad.
You summed it up really - "It’s really nice doing research seeing what is on a real railroad, it’s a great deal of help in creating your own railroad." Cheers and thanks for sharing. ;-)
Good discussion. I also model armour (tanks) and we also have the same thing...build for complete historical accuracy or just build it to look cool and fun. Personally I kill myself a little by leaning more towards to the realism side. I find the trouble comes from people from either side trying to convince the other side to do it their way...either "don't rivet count yourself, anything happens in real life" or the opposite "that would never happen, this is how it is and you are wrong" and very militant. Really I just more people would respect others' freedom to model however they want :)
It took me a whole career to liberate myself from what you just described and I am still repenting (changing the way I think about the hobby). But then when I was in the business with picky clients they drove me up the wall with details which I had to endure at the time of obligation, even when I grew sick of it, and eventually burned out. Well said. Cheers.
Don't let the rivet counters bring you down. I model an alternate history on my steel mill layout, its in a prototypical location but in real life there was no steel mill or a town called Black Ridge. The hobby is more about the immersion into your own interpretation. Budget plays a more important role in that compromise.
Thank You. I should show you a picture I took yesterday with a barn four feet from the backroad highway with no shoulder . . . lol. Across the street it is the same with little lambs frolicking about.
It`s been there since after the war. Millions of motorists have passed by. No building code there . . . lol. Cheers. - Boomer.
A great layout which gives immersive entertainment AND interesting American trains. I’m one of the boys that go prototypical. The layout I’m going to be building is of one of the stations at which I volunteer, Ongar Station. It has to be prototypical for rather than fantastic.
Sounds fantastic! Either way works if it drives the passion we all share. Cheers.
Hey Boomer, thanks for responding to my comment on the DQ, you put it in perspectives and made it look in (place) lack of a better word. Thanks for sharing
You are welcome Randy. Anytime friend - Boomer.
ive seen buildings in southern wisconsin as a kid, brings back fond memorys
in that pink, sorry my thouht got faster than my key finer, yes finer im a bad one finger typer lmao
The classic American post-war towns are just awesome for model railroad subjects. Pink or not. Cheers.
Watching from Ontario Canada. I building an outdoor HO layout at the moment. But I do have a mini shelf industrial switching layout just to run trains.
Very cool! Outdoor HO. I imagine snow removal is a challenge eh? Cheers.
@@boomerdiorama Actually, if we get a light dusting < 1cm, it blends in with the buildings and track work very well. Over 2cm and I’ll need the plot train.
@@phillipgrey Sounds cool . . .
great stuff. i think i may be in a third area of modelling. i want to experience my prototype in the past . there isnt anything left to go look at. all the bldgs and even some rolling stock had to be scratchbuilt from researching photos and making my own plans. i do enjoy that. but one has to draw the line somewhere! i try to make the equipment look good from viewing ht. but there may be a few rivets missing, but with your new to me weathering methods, nobody can see the missing rivet Lol
I agree with your view of things. I would rather hide the possibilities of a missing rivet than create a reason for another one . . . so yes . . . I compensate with paint. If you study some of the old Rembrandt paintings (and I`m no Rembrandt), the closer you get the worse it looks. Stand back a ways and it looks like a masterpiece . . . lol. Things also get better with age as the eyes dim and the memory fails as we begin to move in a little closer . . . lol.
@@boomerdiorama i know what you mean there1 Lol i havent modeled for a few months and am having cataract surgery next week i think? Lol
@@789train I hope it goes well for you. Keep me in the loop when it is done. I`m curious, since my eyes are growing rather dim these days as well. Cheers.
Like what you’re doing,it demonstrates that you don’t need a 2000 square foot basement to achieve something great. The restaurant reminds me of an old Surrey place,the Round up at 152 and #10 hwy.
Sorry the Rodeo not the Round up
That`s the idea. Something most can relate too. Not quite sure what it will become . . . yet even though it began as a DQ. Cheers.
I remember that Rodeo back in the day . . . I lived a few blocks away many years ago . . . for a few years that is - Boomer.
Great weather on your cars
Thank You. I`m still evolving the process. Even then, the simple is acceptable. No need to get too fancy when you think about it. I just think about how it happens in the real world but in miniature. It rains and pours and oxidizes in the sun. I literally throw dirty (water-based) washes on the model and wash it off. What little remains, builds up and starts to show. I revisit them over-and-over again whenever I feel like it. Cheers.
Well spoken sir
Thank You! I hope it's encouraging. Cheers ~ Boomer.
Freelance based on prototype gives best of both worlds and allows you to pivot to make something fit or work on your layout but using best practice. I do NOT get caught up in “rivet counting” ! And I’m very happy in this hobby.
Just my opinion...😉😂
Thanks for sharing. The other day when I was at the hobby shop I saw a model detail package hanging on the kiosk with just miniature rivets on a sprue. I get the reasoning and appeal behind it but I sure had a chuckle . . . Cheers.
What an interesting video, we do what we can, and when we cannot we compromise, I lived in Owen Sound many years ago and am considering to return there in my twilight years, the harbor would make a really good railroad diorama if it was circa 1945,
A great lakes ship needs 11 ft in HO scale,
I need a bigger house, which I have no intention of doing, artistic license is in order.
Sounds great. You could always just model the bow section of the ship like the book-end bridge façade. Just fire up the imagination by mocking it up with card-board first. Go for it! - Boomer
Yep...know what you mean...in the beginning I was hung up on what seemed to make more sense than what was in the real world....like, your bridge is over-weathered or cars and RR’s don’t share bridges.....until I showed picture proof 😂😂😂....it’s our railroads 😊
As a community we need to encourage the millennial generation into the whimsical side of the hobby if they are going to carry the "hobby" torch forward. This is why we need to be careful about prototypical dogma if it stifles the kindling flame in the younger (and obviously hyper creative) generation. I love the creative nature of the Millennial generation. - Boomer.
Wise words from Boomer the Bodhisattva I actually have a lot of these sayings on post it notes in my layout room to remind me that it's ok not to be a crotchety rivet counter.
It's your railroad . . . lol. Some days I count rivets, some days who cares . . . lol.
Personally I think it looks terrific. My layout is just that a layout have built or am in the process of. I don’t think I saw all the trains in real life , I am just trying to create a small scene in time which I passed through so it isn’t prototypical, just a model railway. River counters not welcome🤣
Right on. My brother sent me a railroad pic of a small switcher servicing a brewery. What a fantastic concept for a simple shelf layout.Two or three tracks with a few turnouts is all that is needed. Cheers.
On the BCR building, what did you use to create the light frames over the track if that's what you intended them to be?
Scrap Evergreen Plastic.😁
In my opinion I dislike guys like this, proto rivet counters distroy the hobby for alot of people trying to get into it. See it all the time. It's a MODEL, you can do what ever you like and how you want it.
I am like you, I take inspiration from memories and the real thing. Combine the two to make things work for my space and budgetory constraints.
Your layout is very inspiring, not for all the minute details but the whole layout overall, everything works to make it pop and stand out.
In the end one does a hobby to satisfy there own needs and escapes from real life issues. Make something that gives you enjoyment not others.
To many critics out there!
Thank You for the compliment. The term "Rivet Counter" is really just a euphemism for, "Legend in the own mind of the individual modeler struggling with the ego." We all strive to slay the ego as we grow older - Boomer.
I have never felt buyer remorse but what I do is sell anything I realized that I didn't really need it.
Lol . . . O.K. . . . sounds good Bryan - Boomer.
I like the DQ i see my self standing there having a cone and doing some railfaning
Thank You. My initial intention was something like that. I envisioned the short line engineer and brakeman stopping in for a quick coffee in this early episode: ua-cam.com/video/kzAgmW6uykE/v-deo.html
Someone said... whatever you modell on your raildroad, and someone say: "it dosnt exist", you can be sure, somewhere on earth it exist... and when we are absolutly honest is every railraod we model just a compromice... i think, someone can proof me or show the opposite, that we would have to build in Z scvale in a very big room/hall to get the chance to do it prototypically...
You nailed my point. If we think it does not exist in the real world as we imagine it, it probably does some where in the hidden corner of a small town. Why not, then. on our personal layout. I mean, after all. It is your railroad. Cheers.
Excellent detail are you going to but wires on your telephone poles
Thank You. Wires and light poles will be the very last features on the diorama. This way I don't knock them down when I add all the other stuff. Thank You for the suggestions. Cheers.
hello its me, im still kicking
How are you? Good to hear from you. I hope you are managing O.K. I covet you in my prayers - Boomer.
Totally agree. Prototype nazis are a buzzkill.
;-)
I think building from a prototype is cool but I am not legalistic about it. ;-) Cheers.
Hi Boomer, love your videos. I have a switching layout and spend many hours having fun with it. Check out videos by - John2618 - He has a switching layout and runs it as the prototype.
Thank You. Yes, I have watched several of his videos. He seems to have been absent lately for content though. Maybe work and life are in the way which is understandable. Cheers.