Does anybody have specific info for the New Haven in Connecticut? I have been trying to get this off the ground for years, but I only got to planning it a few weeks ago. I need some info for the RR to get started. The sooner the better. Please help.
You can find a lot of information on the New Haven from the articles in MR on David Popp’s Naugatuck Valley. Here are references to a few of them. (I classified them in the order of town-by-town spots on the layout, and I have not input the last 6 months or so of articles…)
"I have been so fascinated by David Popp’s layout in April 06 MR that I just had to explore it more. As it turns out, one can do just that by “re-purposing” Popp’s Step-by-Step column. I did just that from my box of Model Railroader for 2005 and assembled this ‘tour’. "
SYSTEM MAP showing prototype area with modeled lines Feb05 p.40
For orientation, I am following the map directions along the modeled line, and listing scenes from “north” to “south”, Hancock Bridge- Waterbury- Prospect Hill- Beacon. With the exception of , “north” is to the left from the point of view of an operator in the aisle, and “south” is right. Using these directions, I describe various structures, mini-scenes, etc as in the “north” of “south” end of a town.
Find a copy of “New Haven Railroad” by Peter Lynch for starters. “New Haven Power” by Swanberg tells all you need to know about motive power. You can steep yourslef in knowledge of the New Haven by reading the many great books written about it if you can find them on E-Bay or Amazon.
Big Rustys’ advice was good though the book by Swanberg is out of print and pricey these days. There are many books on specific parts of the railroad and equipment many still in print. If you can put up with their nonsense, the NHRHTA website is a treasure trove of information including current publications and links to other research sites. Though it was frequently bankrupt or at least financially distressed, the New Haven managed a great deal of innovation before it disappeared in 1968. J.R
Swanberg’s book is available if you search for it. I bought mine from Karen’s Books.
Also try Ron’s Books, he has a ton of railroad mags and books.