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.
2026 NMRA National Convention
The 2026 National Model Railroad Association Convention, themed “Scenic City Express,” will be held in Chattanooga from July 27 to August 2. It promises over 200 hours of clinics, layout tours, and the National Train Show, fostering community and learning among model railroaders. Registration is now open, generating significant excitement.
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 […]
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.
Big Boy Heads East: A Historic Journey to the Northeast
Railfans across the Northeast are enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity this year as Union Pacific’s legendary Big Boy No. 4014 makes its first-ever journey to the East Coast. The world’s largest […]
Enhance Your Model Railroad with Realistic Operations
The Operations Special Interest Group (OpSIG) enhances model railroading by promoting realistic railroad operations, focusing on freight movement and realistic scheduling. With resources like a quarterly magazine and an Achievement Program, OpSIG fosters learning and community engagement, appealing to enthusiasts of all experience levels while emphasizing the transformative nature of operational layouts.
Start Your Model Railroading Journey
A Friendly Guide for New Hobbyists by Alan Feldman If you’re new to model railroading — welcome! You’ve just stepped into one of the most creative, hands‑on, and rewarding hobbies […]
From Perryville to Aberdeen: A Railfan’s Day Among Historic Stations
On April 18, 2026, a few members enjoyed a day centered around two historic railroad stations in northeastern Maryland, each offering a unique look at the region’s rich railroad heritage. […]