Mid-Eastern Region Convention
Join model railroaders from across the Mid-Atlantic this October for the NMRA Mid-Eastern Region Convention 2026, “Tracks to Tidewater,” in beautiful Virginia Beach. Held October 15–18, 2026, the convention will feature clinics, layout tours, prototype inspiration, vendors, fellowship, and plenty of opportunities to learn and share the hobby. With outstanding model railroading activities combined with the relaxing atmosphere of the Virginia coast, this promises to be a memorable weekend for railroad enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Call for Content: Help Us Build a Better Chesapeake Division Website
Have photos, articles, layout features, or event recaps to share? We’re looking for member-submitted content to showcase the talent, creativity, and activity across the Chesapeake Division. Whether it’s a write-up […]
New NMRA Achievement Program Certificate Recognizes Modular Railroading
The NMRA Achievement Program has a brand-new certificate—and this one recognizes a part of the hobby that many model railroaders have enjoyed for decades: modular railroading. The Modular Railroading Achievement Program Certificate was […]
National Train Show Rolls into Chattanooga
The 2026 National Train Show wrapped up on August 1-2 at the Chattanooga Convention Center, bringing together thousands of model railroaders, manufacturers, clubs, and hobby enthusiasts for one of the […]
The NMRA National Convention Is Underway in Chattanooga!
This week, model railroaders from across the country—and around the world—have gathered in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for the NMRA National Convention. The Scenic City has become the center of the model […]
Tune In While You Model: Podcasts Every Model Railroader Should Know
One of the great things about model railroading is that you can enjoy the hobby even when you’re not in the train room. Whether you’re commuting to work, traveling to […]
Manufacturer Spotlight – Conowingo Models
One of the greatest strengths of the Chesapeake Division is the incredible talent found within our membership. Our members contribute to the hobby in countless ways—as layout builders, operators, historians, […]
Combining Hobbies – Bicycling and Rail Fanning
This writeup is by David DiCarlo and his experience biking the Gap Trail. Last October I had the opportunity to combine two of my favorite hobbies—railfanning and bicycle touring. I […]
Stretch Your Hobby Budget with the NMRA Partnership Program
One of the best—and often overlooked—benefits of belonging to the National Model Railroad Association is the NMRA Partnership Program. Whether you’re purchasing locomotives, rolling stock, scenery materials, structure kits, electronics, […]
Division Layout – Bill Freeland’s B&O Railroad
Walk into Bill Freeland’s railroad room during an operating session and it does not take long to realize this is not just another home layout. Trains are moving on multiple […]
Earn Your Golden Spike: A Milestone for Every Model Railroader
Many NMRA members spend countless hours building layouts, detailing rolling stock, wiring track, constructing structures, and creating realistic scenery. Yet many never realize they have already completed much of the […]
Division Layout – Ken Poznaniak’s Chesapeake, Susquehanna, and Western
Ken Poznaniak’s Chesapeake, Susquehanna & Western is a detailed HO-scale model railroad designed for active operation. It features modern and historical elements, including a busy industrial complex, passenger services, and intricate scenery. This engaging layout provides a vibrant representation of contemporary railroading and has become a favorite among model railroaders for its operational realism and craftsmanship.