I live in a small community that has been dependent upon the timber industry throughout history, but the economy has been devastated by the virtual shutdown of the industry. About the only thing that the area's political leaders can come up with to boost the economy is tourism.
Recently, a couple of us model railroaders came up with the idea of each business in town building a module (N-Trak or oNe track?) for display (or small operating layout) in their individual stores to give the town a theme. Perhaps a couple times a year the modules could be put together for a big "trainfest" in the county fair pavillon. Modelers from all over could be invited to join in the fun and operate trains for a week or weekend (or year around...what the heck! Let's think BIG!).
It would be interesting because John Day, Oregon, has never had an operating railroad. There is a narrow gauge tourist line (Sumpter Valley Railway) just over 50 miles away. The Oregon & Northwestern Railroad used to serve Seneca, Oregon, which is 25 miles to the south of John Day.
At this time some individuals are working with the owner/operator of the local Dairy Queen to build a layout in his restaurant. (Picture attached)
I'd like to hear what some of you people think of the idea. Of course, I know that you are biased; but then you would be the people that would make something like this work anyway.
Anybody have any thoughts on such a project? How far out of your way would you go to see something like this?
Recently, a couple of us model railroaders came up with the idea of each business in town building a module (N-Trak or oNe track?) for display (or small operating layout) in their individual stores to give the town a theme. Perhaps a couple times a year the modules could be put together for a big "trainfest" in the county fair pavillon. Modelers from all over could be invited to join in the fun and operate trains for a week or weekend (or year around...what the heck! Let's think BIG!).
It would be interesting because John Day, Oregon, has never had an operating railroad. There is a narrow gauge tourist line (Sumpter Valley Railway) just over 50 miles away. The Oregon & Northwestern Railroad used to serve Seneca, Oregon, which is 25 miles to the south of John Day.
At this time some individuals are working with the owner/operator of the local Dairy Queen to build a layout in his restaurant. (Picture attached)
I'd like to hear what some of you people think of the idea. Of course, I know that you are biased; but then you would be the people that would make something like this work anyway.
Anybody have any thoughts on such a project? How far out of your way would you go to see something like this?
