Category: Articles
Articles written by members of the Chesapeake Division
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 […]
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, […]
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 […]
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 […]