Building scale replica model trains and railroads is a hobby that has found a loyal following around the world over the past century. Also known as model railroading or railway modeling, this detailed pastime involves realistic miniature reproductions of locomotive trains, their cabs and wagons, railroad segments and stations, and even tiny people, animals and vehicles to decorate the landscapes. Model railroading first started around the 1840s, when people would set up toy train sets that could move on wooden floors. In comparison to modern kits, these earlier versions lacked railroad tracks. Today’s model railroad sets are far more lifelike and precision in modeling and painting has grown to an art form. Modern hobbyists take it an extra step further by duplicating specific time periods and locations.

More Model Railroading Resources:

• Model Railroader Magazine
• The National Model Railroad Association
• A Beginner’s Guide to Building a Model Railroad
• College Model Railroad Clubs and Related Resources
• An Example of a Garden (G-Scale) Railroad Layout
• A List of Model Railroad Manufacturers
• Model Railroad Museums In Europe
• The Annual Model Train Festival (Washington)
• The Early History of Model Railroading
• The Evolution of Railway Models
• A Comprehensive History of Toy Trains
• The San Diego Model Railroad Museum
• Model Railroad Hobbyist Magazine
• Modern Scales and Gauges for Model Railroads
• A Detailed Explanation of Model Railroad Scales and Gauges
• Free Downloadable Model Rail Scale Calculator
• Railway Model Wiring Tips
• Model Train Glossary of Technical Terms and Lingo
• Model Train Operations and Speeds
• Model Railroad News Monthly Magazine
• Model Railroad Landscaping Tips and Techniques
• A Tutorial on DIY Model Landscaping
• Crafting Tips and Tricks for Creating Model Landscapes and Scenery
• A Tutorial on Constructing Plastic Buildings and Other Miniature Structures
• Weathering Advice and Techniques
• Painting and Weathering Tips for Model Trains
• An Explanation of Digital Command Control (DCC)
• Pros and Cons of Using DCC with Model Railroads
•  Power Supply Options for Model Railroads
• Model Railroading Instructional Series
• Model Railroad Resources for Beginners
• An Example of an N-Scale Model Railroad
• A List of Celebrities Who are Model Railroaders
• John Whitby Allen, a Notable Model Railroader
• View a Famous O-Scale Model Railroad Layout
• Model Railway Hobbyist Clubs in North America
• The Model Train Fair in New York
• Resources and Information on Garden Railroading
• Manufacturer Resources for Different Scale Models and Parts