Does anyone have information on the SCL and ACL train displays at the Florida State Fair, in the 1950s, and the Royal American Shows trains that serviced the fair? What became of the model trains and the displays?
Since you are a native of Tampa, FL, the best resources are in town. Call or visit the LHS, Happy Hobo; the owner and many of its patrons are well versed in SAL/ACL history.
You can also join the Seaboard Coast Line Yahoo Group or ask them a question:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SCLRailfans/join?
Also, the SAL/ACL historical society is an excellent resource for information.
I hope this helps.
Bill Lenior the world famous modeler built and maintained both the SAL and ACL (later SCL)layouts at the old fair grounds downtown.I saw the SCL train at CSX headquaters in Jacksonville.Not sure about other trains or cars,but might have gone to a museum in the midwest,Bill’s home.Some kin to him worked for RB&BB circus that is what brought him to Florida.Ken Halverson,a long time friend of Bill’s has all the details.
AFAIK Royal American folded sometime after they lost the Florida State Fair contract.They have been gone for years.
Uncle Joe
Uncle Joe,
Thanks for the reply. Is there any way to make e-mail contact with Bill or Ken? My e-mail is jimp_99@yahoo.com.
Thanks,
Jim