runaway_geep
Member
I am currently building a 34x16 HO layout in the basement of my house. It is a freelanced road set in the late 70’s. The layout has about 90% of track laid and about 30% of the scenery in place.
While I feel that the concept and design of my railroad is plausible, I’m considering a change.
I have discovered over the past couple of years that I really enjoy studying prototypes, their structures, geography, maps, local history, etc. Now I believe most people at this point might decide on switching to a prototype and having an era chosen. However, this is where my interests diverge.
Currently, I am torn in vastly different directions. Every time I make a pro/con list, I think of more “yeah, but what about this…” topics that balance the debate.
How do I settle on a prototype once and for all? I am almost 40 and I grew up with early 90’s CSX and all the fallen flag equipment that was common then. But SD50’s and endless matched Coal hoppers don’t draw that interest (that’s what I grew up with). Freight and 4 axle power does, however.
I’m also fascinated with the B&O post WWII steam era in my hometown, even though I saw none of it. But the availability of mid size B&O steam locomotives appropriate for the era (E-27’s, Q-4’s, P-3’s, etc.) is slim to none.
And there is also the urge to press forward with the freelance road I’ve already started on….
So I am asking for advice about how to pick an era and to stick with it?
Thanks!
While I feel that the concept and design of my railroad is plausible, I’m considering a change.
I have discovered over the past couple of years that I really enjoy studying prototypes, their structures, geography, maps, local history, etc. Now I believe most people at this point might decide on switching to a prototype and having an era chosen. However, this is where my interests diverge.
Currently, I am torn in vastly different directions. Every time I make a pro/con list, I think of more “yeah, but what about this…” topics that balance the debate.
How do I settle on a prototype once and for all? I am almost 40 and I grew up with early 90’s CSX and all the fallen flag equipment that was common then. But SD50’s and endless matched Coal hoppers don’t draw that interest (that’s what I grew up with). Freight and 4 axle power does, however.
I’m also fascinated with the B&O post WWII steam era in my hometown, even though I saw none of it. But the availability of mid size B&O steam locomotives appropriate for the era (E-27’s, Q-4’s, P-3’s, etc.) is slim to none.
And there is also the urge to press forward with the freelance road I’ve already started on….
So I am asking for advice about how to pick an era and to stick with it?
Thanks!