Searching for layout that appeared in the 80's Model Railroader Magazine

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I am looking a layout that appeared in MR sometime in the 80’s, (70’s ?).
The layout featured a highly detailed city scene. It was portable (I believe
on wheels). Layout was modular in design (perhaps 3 X 7) not too sure
of exact dimensions. The scale of layout is HO. There were several color
photos of layout in the magazineas well as the layout plan. There were
streets where locos could pass on ( sidings, bridge over a creek). Would
like to get back issue of magazine. Nees some help in locating?
Thanks a lot!

2

Rene - It sounds to me like you could be describing Malcolm Furlow’s Carbondale Central , a city-scene project layout series that began with the January 1988 issue of MR. However, given your 20 year uncertainty in the publication date and your limited description, it could possibly be any one of half a dozen other MR offering that I can recall over such a span of years. Was it a corner layout, L-shaped, very highly urbanized in its scenery, have relatively limited deadend switching and designed around a bent loop of track mainly intended for “running”? More details please.

CNJ831

3

Also sounds like a layout by Bob Smaus I am not sure if the spelling is right and I think he was on the Victory Garden show on PBS Cox 47

4

I have the issues with Malcolm Furlow’s Carbondale Central. Maybe I can be of some help?

It’s portable but no wheels. The issues tells you how to build the benchwork and everything else you need to know from start to finished layout.

Building the Carbondale Central

Part 1 Januari 1988
Part 2 Februari 1988
Part 3 Mars 1988

5

Yeah, it sure sounds like Rene is talking about Bob Smaus’ layout. It was 3ft x 11ft and on wheels.

The issue was October, 1989. The title of the article was “Dear Rick… We share a friendly letter about a very nice HO layout”.

This layout was a huge influence on me, and represents the type of layouts I envision myself building over the years (if I finally get started on of these days!).

You can also see Bob’s current layout here: http://www.bobsgardenpath.com/trains.html

6

Thank you for your prompt response. I am familiar with Malcolm Furlow’s
Carbondale Central. I have a detailed plan and article which was published in 6 HO
Railroads you Can Build. Someone also replied that it could be a layout designed by
Bob Smaus which appeared in MR in 1989. Will pursue this lead. Again, Thanks!

7

Thanks a lot for your prompt response. I will pursue this lead.

8
9

Thanks much! I will pursue this lead! Sounds like it could be the layout I am looking
for! Someone wrote me that the layout by Bob Smaus appeared in MR in October,
1989. Again, thanks!