Chesapeake Division Visits Philadelphia and New Jersey Joint Division Meet
On Saturday, November 7, 2026, members of the NMRA’s Philadelphia and New Jersey Divisions gathered at the Brandywine Town Center Community Center in Wilmington, Delaware, for a joint division meet. The event provided another wonderful opportunity for model railroaders from across the region, including the Chesapeake Division, to come together, share ideas, learn new techniques, and enjoy the camaraderie that makes this hobby so rewarding.
Clinics, Models, and Fellowship
The morning program featured two interesting clinics covering different aspects of model railroading.
Tom Ghan, a new Philadelphia Division member, presented “Lasers, A Tool for Model Railroaders.” His clinic explored the possibilities of using laser cutting and engraving equipment for model railroad projects. Following a safety overview, Tom discussed different materials, techniques, and processes, sharing numerous examples of how laser technology can be used to create structures, details, and other components for a model railroad. Tom is currently modeling the Reading and Pennsylvania Railroads between Manayunk and Norristown in HO scale, set in 1927.
The second clinic, “Dioramas: The Next Step after Completing Your Layout,” was presented by Jim Shepard of the New Jersey Division. Jim discussed the appeal of building dioramas as a way to continue enjoying the creative aspects of model railroading, even after a layout is largely complete. His presentation covered construction techniques, detailing, and examples of finished dioramas. Dioramas provide an excellent opportunity to experiment with new scenery techniques, build highly detailed scenes, or simply enjoy modeling without the constraints of an existing layout.
In addition to the clinics, attendees had opportunities to share their latest modeling projects through Show & Tell and participate in the NMRA Achievement Program by having models evaluated. These activities provide valuable opportunities to exchange ideas, receive feedback, and recognize the craftsmanship of fellow modelers. A 50/50 raffle, door prizes, and refreshments rounded out the morning’s activities.
An Afternoon of Model Railroading
Following the morning meet, attendees had the opportunity to visit model railroad layouts in the surrounding area. These open houses were coordinated through ModelRailroadOpenHouse.com, a website that organizes and publicizes model railroad open houses throughout the region.
Layout visits are always a highlight of model railroad gatherings, offering opportunities to see a variety of scales, modeling techniques, scenery, and approaches to railroad operations. They also provide a chance to meet layout owners, ask questions, and gather ideas to bring home for our own modeling projects.
The Model Railroad Open House website is an excellent resource for anyone interested in visiting layouts throughout the region. Chesapeake Division members are encouraged to check www.modelrailroadopenhouse.com regularly for upcoming opportunities.
Opportunities Beyond Our Division
While the Chesapeake Division offers many activities throughout the year, neighboring NMRA divisions also host excellent events that are well worth attending. Joint meets such as this one demonstrate the benefits of being part of a larger model railroading community. They provide opportunities to meet new people, exchange modeling ideas, and experience aspects of the hobby that we might not otherwise encounter.
Chesapeake Division members are encouraged to explore events hosted by neighboring divisions throughout the Mid-Eastern Region. Whether you attend a clinic, bring a model for Show & Tell, participate in an operating session, or simply enjoy visiting with fellow model railroaders, these gatherings are a great way to expand your enjoyment of the hobby.
Thank you to the Philadelphia and New Jersey Divisions for organizing this joint meet and welcoming fellow NMRA members from across the region. Events like these remind us that one of the greatest benefits of NMRA membership is the opportunity to learn from and share our enthusiasm with other model railroaders.
For information about upcoming Philadelphia Division events, visit www.phillynmra.org.
For information about upcoming New Jersey Division events, visit https://njdivnmra.org.