The Aiken and Sufrin is a free lanced HO scale model railroad that had its beginnings in 1996. It all began with the enclosure of my carport and then a two year drying out period during which time a dehumidifier was online 24/7. A dedicated 20-amp circuit was run into the room, walls were insulated and wallboard was put up. By the end of 1999, the first track was installed and I began to run trains.
The railroad is in its third incarnation, and DCC replaced the original DC block and cab wiring system. NCE DCC was installed and there are two cabs, each with six loco assignments. Both steam and diesel locos run on my pike, but to be perfectly honest I have to admit that steam locos will forever be my favorites, reminiscent of my childhood days when dad brought home a Lionel passenger set that made Christmas all the more special every year.
Time has gone by quickly, it seems, and my health is not what it once was; therefore, the railroad is about to be dismantled and the enclosed carport will become a hobby room for my wife and I to share.
I’ve enjoyed this hobby and have learned a lot since I started with HO scale in December of 1950. A lot has changed, the hobby is bigger and better than ever and the future looks great for those who will live to see it. I’ll miss it all, but I have the memories that nobody can take away. I will always remember the sounds and be able to see what has fascinated me for a long, long time.