What the membership does
- Build and operate model displays in multiple scales
- Meet to discuss trains both historical and present day
- Display our O-scale portable layout at the Great Scale Model Train Show
- Attend and present clinics to further our modeling skills
- Provide Fellowship, make Friends, and have Fun
Why Join Us?
The Benefits of membership are as varied as model railroaders. Whether you have interests in railroads old or new, local or distant we think you’ll find someone here with similar interests. Modelers of all skill levels are welcomed with experts and beginners alike sharing knowledge and asking questions. While the club maintains HO and O scale railroads we think no mater what scale you model in will find a benefit of becoming a member. There are many things from planning track layout, building benchwork, wiring, electronics, programming decoders and scenery that are scale independent. And members have different prototype (real) railroad interests, you are likely to find someone who shares your passion for modeling.
So give us a shout (click here for contact info) if you would like to join us in developing skills, sharing knowledge, and planning the future of our organization. We meet most Friday nights via Google meet to share our projects, get advice, and watch videos from our very own curated lists. Sunday afternoons we spend at the club headquarters to work on the HO layout and peruse our vast archives.
When members get together
For those interested in membership we hold online meetings on Friday nights 8-10pm and are at the club most Sundays 1-5pm. The first Friday of the month is the club business meeting where we make decisions about and plans for future activities. Some of those activities include attending the Great Scale Model Train Show at Maryland State Fairgrounds Cow Palace in Timonium. In addition we have work sessions and social gatherings at our members home who graciously allows the timesaver and loops to be setup in his basement when not at the show. We also do club trips to see and operate other layouts around the region or ride scenic railroads.
Application Process
There is an application fee of $50 and membership is $200 per year for senior (age 18+) membership, which is payable in two installments if desired. Other membership categories are available for younger (under 18) and those who only can visit the club a few times a year. When you become a member part way through the year the dues are pro-rated for that year. Your application fee goes towards the first dues payment. We have a three month probationary period for a new prospective member to get to know the club and members to get to know them. During this three month time we read a prospective members application at our monthly business meeting. If you are present at the meeting we ask you say a few words about yourself and your interests in the hobby. After the third reading the members present vote on your application for membership in our historic organization.
Online application coming eventually.