How does one participate in the hobby of full size trains? I get how it is done with model railroading. I also understand how someone could visit a railroad museum with full size. But how does one participate in the hobby of full size operational trains?
Do some take photos of the loco’s with the goal of capturing as many as possible in pictures with different engine numbers? Do some take photos or video of the rolling stock hoping to see one pulling a caboose or a car that should not be in the consist but is for some reason or another?
I am guessing/thinking people can take photos of full size trains as long as they are not trespassing on the railroad property, correct? The last I heard I can take photos of what ever I wish, as long as it is from the public right of way.
Give me some ideas on how I can participate in the hobby of full size trains.
I show up at a place with trains. They give me a list of where cars are at right now, and tell me where they want the cars to go. They give me some engines to make it happen.
And periodically, they dump some money in my bank account.
I feel sorry for those who want to pursue railroading as a hobby today simply because they don’t have to same opportunities to learn about it like us older guys did: people. We use to have track foremen, station agents, tower operators, local freights (five or more man crews), and passenger trains to ride. Today, you don’t have those same opportunities to be literally face to face with the guy in town who sells the tickets, pulls the levers that move the switches and changes the signals, drivies the trains or is in charge of a train as it moves. So you’ve got to do something different.
I can’t see where you’re from, whether it is big city, suburban town, rural locale. But, first I would say check the railroad nearest you, watch their operations, maybe get to know a train crew or two. Try to figure out what it is you like about real railroading: locomotives? trains? logistics and operations? history? technologies? people? anything else? nothing else? all of the above? none of the above? Next figure go to your local library and check out books that tickle your fancy about railroads and railroading. At your hobby shop, buy the fan mags that attract you (TRAINS and CLASSIC TRAINS are two good ones to start with, others may be interesting, too, especially those which may suit your geography). Don’t forget the National Railway HIstorical Society or the Railway and Locomotive HIstorical Society, both of which have local chapters. Many railroads, especially fallen flags, have historical societies aimed at preserving their histories. Don’t overlook operating railroad museums or even the old town depot and historical society. Finally, but not lastly, is to ride trains. Again, I don’t know where you live, but if there is a chance to ride Amtrak, do so. Or go to where you can ride trains. You can see below my Ride With Me Henry signature and note. I, and some friends, often will drive a hundred to
I suggest you post your approximate location on this forum and ask the rest of us to recommend “railfanning” spots where you can legally and safely watch trains come and go to your hearts content. I am confident the suggestions will include spots where other railfans congregate so you are likely to have company and may even strike up some conversations and friendships like others have done over the years. Try it, you may like it! [8-|]
To answer the question of where I live, it is Sioux City, Iowa. We have 2 yards, Union Pacific and BNSF. The crews really frown upon people who do not work there walking through the yards, especially when they are switching.
Frown on it-to say the least-you might get busted for tresspassing, assuming you don’t get injured or worse.
You might want to consider joining a railroad historical society. They come specific to individual railroads or have a broader scope. The National Railroad Historical Society is a good example of the latter. Web site here: http://www.nrhs.com/ Note that their 2012 convention will be in Cedar Rapids, IA. Not right next door to you, but perhaps close enough for you to get in on some of the action.
Don’t be put off by “historical” as you will find that many of these groups also look at or have members interested in today’s railroading.
As with almost any hobby, there can be a cost to belonging to these organizations and participating in their events. I have seen basic membership dues as little as $35 annual (with some OK perks) to costs for conventions and related activities in the hundreds of dollars. Most of these organizations have web sites that advertise their fees and activities so you can determine how they would fit your personal situation.
Zug is lucky but working for a railroad because you are a railfan is not often reccommended. Some people can do it, but for others, well, it might just get in the way one way or another. It could kill the fun aspect of likeing trains or it could interfere with doing a job well. It is more likely that an employee becomes a railfan and a good railroader than a railfan becoming a good railroader. I am not saying these are absolutes by anymeans. But I’ve known railfans who’ve gotten into the railroad and soon quick or quickly get into trouble with management for being a railfan before being a serious, carreer railroader.
And I agree with not being afraid of the designations “historical” or “history”. Often you’ll learn a lot about why a current railroad became what it is and how which can add to your enjoyment of the pursuit. It also can introduce you to those with similar interests, other interests in parts of railroading or of railroads you never knew about… Then, of course, any operating museum is another chapter in being a railfan and learning what it is and was.
I think what I’ll start doing is on sunny days visit the areas in Sioux City where the yards are and shoot photos, from the public right of way, of the loco’s and most especially the loco number. I’ll also start carrying my camera just in case I am at a crossing where a train is and I can get a shot of the loco. I’d like to put the loco numbers in sequential order as part of a photo collection.
There are so many ways to “be a railfan” but most important that it be shared and enjoyed with others. You’ll get the most out of it that way, I’m sure.
I stand at trackside and simply enjoy the view and the sounds. That’s all there is to it for me. When the weather is warm I’ll take my kids or take a book along. Hey…it beats watching what’s on TV these days…
Amen to all of that (yesterday I was subjected to the drivel my grandchildren watch on TV).
Collecting locomotive numbers could be a start. Then you’ll eventually discover that some of these locomotives look and sound different from others. You’ll buy books to help you tell the difference. You’ll learn things. That’s important.
You sound like you may be too young to drive yet. If I’m right, and your parents show an interest in what you’re interested in, I’d suggest asking them to take you somewhere that you can perhaps get some more dramatic action. The Forum has friends in Omaha and Lincoln, for example. Fremont would be a very interesting place, and most of the railroad action isn’t too far from other stuff downtown.
But you could also go for a ride along the lines that go through Sioux City. Find out more about the why.… which freight cars are used for what, what’s important in your area.
Ulrich:
I stand at trackside and simply enjoy the view and the sounds. That’s all there is to it for me. When the weather is warm I’ll take my kids or take a book along. Hey…it beats watching what’s on TV these days…
Amen to all of that (yesterday I was subjected to the drivel my grandchildren watch on TV).
Collecting locomotive numbers could be a start. Then you’ll eventually discover that some of these locomotives look and sound different from others. You’ll buy books to help you tell the difference. You’ll learn things. That’s important.
You sound like you may be too young to drive yet. If I’m right, and your parents show an interest in what you’re interested in, I’d suggest asking them to take you somewhere that you can perhaps get some more dramatic action. The Forum has friends in Omaha and Lincoln, for example. Fremont would be a very interesting place, and most of the railroad action isn’t too far from other stuff downtown.
But you could also go for a ride along the lines that go through Sioux City. Find out more about the why.… which freight cars are used for what, what’s important in your area.&n
Well, most of what I said still applies, but you can take those short trips I mentioned on your own, then.
I also neglected to mention that as soon as the local railroaders recognize you as a more-or-less “regular” who stays out of trouble but still shows an interest, the frowns should gradually disappear. Again, ask the questions when they become a little more receptive. You may get lucky with people who are willing to encourage you in other ways that rules don’t usually allow.
I’ve never been to Sioux City, so don’t know too much about what you’ll find there these days. Even if it’s fairly busy, you’ll eventually want to seek out other places, because the trains you’ll see at those places will be different–different types of trains, different cars, perhaps different locomotives. Different signaling systems on the tracks.
There are also far, far worse midlife crises to have (ask my wife)!
It’s a good hobby…you can make it as relaxed or as intense as you like. some people with more time on their hands become experts…others (like me)…just enjoy.
I don’t think the I chose the hobby though…it chose me somehow.
Yes, indeed, Paul![:D] But, Zug is not given good tips by parlor car patrons who are grateful to get seats (Trains, May 1972, pp. 41,42) and so is forced to visit the paymaster’s office if he is going to keep body and soul together. [:)]