Mixed Model Railroads & Trains

Model railroading has been considered a hobby since the 1880s. Prior to 1935, there were no standard gauges or scales, and often, trains made by one manufacturer would not run on tracks made by another. In 1935, the National Model Railroad Association was formed. The NMRA established the standard gauges and scales used in model railroading today so that hobbyists could mix products from different companies when building model railroad layouts.

Model railroad hobbyists are often classified as operators or collectors. Operators focus on the operation of a model railroad layout, including complete trains with scenery and miniatures. These hobbyists usually build their layouts in one scale. Operators often mix brands and alter the models they purchase to suit their own needs. Collectors focus on the quality and realism of the models. Collectors may also focus on one scale, or may collect by railroad line or brand of model train products. They display their collections and run their cars very little to avoid wear or damage to their models.

Many model railroad enthusiasts have both operating model trains and display collections. These hobbyists own many different types of model trains of many different brands. They will often purchase used model railroad lots at auctions or estate sales to round out their own collections, or may build their own models from scratch.

Quick Facts

• Some model railroad hobbyists collect model train cars from one specific railroad and recreate historically-accurate layouts representing that railroad
• The National Model Railroad Association, or NMRA, helps railroad enthusiasts build their hobby and connect with other model railroaders. The organization holds a national convention and national train show every year
• America's largest operating model train show is Trainfest, held every November in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The event offers 230,000 square feet of model train layouts, seminars, and products for sale