Model trains appeal to so many for a multitude of different reasons. Those reasons are as diverse as the people who build model railroads. At its most basic level, a hobby is pursued simply because it is fun and enjoyable. But the love of model trains goes deeper than plain enjoyment.
Family Activity
Building model trains is a fun activity for anyone at any age.Photo byMinnesota From Scratch
One of the most appealing aspects of building model railroads is its ability to close generational gaps. Grandfathers, fathers, and mothers introduce younger boys and girls to their favorite pastime and suddenly share a common interest. Sometimes our fast-paced lifestyles can make it difficult to even share a family dinner, so engaging in a long-term family activity is a precious opportunity to spend quality time with one another. Everyone can find a particular job to do that interests him or her, working together to create something wonderful.
It takes time, research and attention to detail to create a realistic model train set.
Building a model railroad requires a broad range of skills, and there is much to learn for the novice hobbyist. Basic woodwork and carpentry, electrical wiring and long-term project planning are all necessary when building a model railroad, as well as problem-solving and research skills. Few activities offer the chance to develop such a variety of essential skills and make up a large part of the appeal for hobbyists of all ages.
Artistic Expression
Building a model railroad is like a big art project using a variety of different mediums.
Creativity and imagination is a must when building model railroads, even when re-creating actual geographic locations. Painting scenery and backdrops, weathering cars and creating landscape features all help define model railroad building as a 3-D art form. There is a deep satisfaction to be found in artistic expression, in 'making' things and creating something from nothing.
Long-Term Project
There's always something more to add!
Part of the attraction in building a model railroad lies in its continuously unfinished aspect. There is always something else to paint, something else to build or improve upon. The long-term nature of building a model railroad runs counter to the culture of instant gratification in our society. It teaches the value of a job well done, and a sense of deep gratification comes out of constantly improving something over months and even years of work. Just as you are never too young or too old to take up model railroad building as a hobby, you also never really reach "the end" of the project.
A Social Hobby
Large model railroad at festival in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
Many people mistakenly believe that building model railroads is a solitary hobby, only for people who like to work alone. This is simply not true! There is a vibrant social life within the model railroad community, no matter where you live. Clubs and associations offer a great way to share stories, collect valuable tips, and build relationships with people who share your interests. People from all walks of life participate in competitions, conventions, and meetings, and the universal appeal of building model railroads means you are guaranteed to meet interesting folks.
Finally, perhaps the biggest reason building model railroads is such an enduring hobby - it's fun!
Click here to find everything you need to begin building your own model railroad.
FAQs
The appeal of model trains extends beyond the mechanics of locomotives to the hands-on creativity involved in crafting miniature landscapes. Hobbyists channel their creativity into designing realistic environments, showcasing a dedication that defies the small scale of their projects.
Why are model trains so popular? ›
Planning the track, getting the material, electricity, figuring out landscapes, and overcoming challenges can be very empowering, plus building confidence, no matter what age someone is. Being detail-oriented is another skill that is developed with a model railroad.
Why are so many people interested in trains? ›
The answer is in the rarity of seeing a train, as well as the sense of adventure they invoke within us. People generally encounter trains much less than they would a highway, road, or airport, making them a unique sight.
What is the point of model railroading? ›
Many people in the hobby started when they were kids and it stayed with them. Railroads reflect the times they operated in, and vice versa. Building a model railroad leads to learning about prototype railroads, their times and their settings.
How popular is model trains? ›
Model railroading — dubbed “the greatest hobby in the world” by its practitioners — may seem like a Cold War-era relic, but it remained steadily popular for years. Now the hobby is 'exploding' thanks to the pandemic.
What is the most popular model train? ›
Today, HO scale remains the most popular choice among model railroaders worldwide. Its 1:87 scale ratio provides a perfect balance between detail and space efficiency, making it ideal for creating intricate layouts in relatively small spaces.
Is a model train a toy? ›
Toy trains from the first half of the 20th century were often made of lithographed tin; later trains were often made mostly of plastic. Prior to the 1950s, there was little distinction between toy trains and model railroads—model railroads were toys by definition.
What is the most popular model train set? ›
The HO Scale is 1:87, half of the O scale. They run on a gauge of . 625 inches. Because of its small size, the HO Scale has become one of the most popular scales for model trains.
Is spinning in a child autism? ›
Spinning is one of the most common symptoms of autism in children. It usually begins when toddlers start moving independently. Autistic spinning is one of several repetitive movements children on the spectrum can exhibit. Others include hand flapping, rocking, or repeating words and sounds.
What do you call a model train enthusiast? ›
Railfans often combine their interest with other hobbies, especially photography and videography, radio scanning, railway modelling, studying railroad history and participating in railway station and rolling stock preservation efforts.
Structure and Order: Trains are known for their structure, order, and predictable schedules. Autistic individuals often thrive in environments that provide a sense of order and routine. The consistent and organized nature of trains may provide a comforting and predictable experience for them.
What is the oldest model train? ›
The first documented model railway was the Railway of the Prince Imperial (French: Chemin de fer du Prince Impérial) built in 1859 by Emperor Napoleon III for his then 3-year-old son, also Napoleon, in the grounds of the Château de Saint-Cloud in Paris. It was powered by clockwork and ran in a figure-of-eight.
Why do some model trains have 3 rails? ›
The use of a third rail in rail transport modelling is a technique that was once applied, in order to facilitate easier wiring. Early O gauge track pieces. All metal, with a small fibre insulating washer beneath each central rail chair.
Are model trains for adults? ›
Think of it this way: model trains tend to be made for and marketed toward adults or older youth.
When did model trains become popular? ›
The first mass market model train sets were invented by a German company called Marklin in 1891, and by the early 1950s model trains were the number one most popular toy for boys in the United States.
Are model railways still popular? ›
WMRC member and former editor of magazine Railway Modeller Steve Flint said: 'The hobby is alive and well at grassroots level, but the commercial boom period of recent decades has probably run its course, having been slowed by the effects of the pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and the ever-increasing age of ...
Do model trains hold their value? ›
Keep in mind that price is tied directly to demand, modified greatly by condition and scarcity. Most toy trains were produced in huge quantities; so not all old trains are necessarily scarce or sough after by collectors. Still, almost everything has some value, even if only for its parts.
