Model Trains

These trains are a long way from HO scale, or even LG scale. They are called Grand Scale. This particular train is part of the Arborway RailRoad (ATT&NW) near Steelville, Missouri. Started in 2001 by John Woods and his mother, Marjorie (Tee Tee), the private railroad was built on land that had been in the family since the 1920's. The new family hobby would provide a focal point for family gatherings and strengthen ties with family members who had moved away from St. Louis area.

Grand Scale trains are the type that you have seen at zoos and parks. The ATT&NW has rails that are 15" apart, over 5 miles of track, tunnels and even a roundhouse. Rolling stock consists of 6 different engines and numerous boxcars and passenger cars.

Want to take a ride? Sorry, it's a private railway. For insurance reasons the railroad isn't open to the public. Some groups of "friends of the railroad", railroad enthusiasts and other special guests are occasionally accomodated, but only by prior arrangement. The largest group yet will be visiting the ATT&NW in mid September when they host the 2007 Miniature Railroad Convention. Over 300 grand scale railroad enthusiasts from all over the world will be meeting there and riding the rails. Some are even bringing their own engines to be "guests" on the ATT&NW tracks.

Pretty fascinating stuff for a history buff like the Old Peddler. You can see more photos, some great video and learn more about the ATT&NW by following this link. All aboard!!