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The Roundhouse: Episode 22
A nice tribute. I can second Tony’s remark that Allen is a very friendly and down to earth individual. In December 1982 he gave a clinic at an NMRA event here in Milwaukee and was as you can imagine mobbed by admirers afterwards, but he was friendly and patient with each of us, actually listend to and answered our questions. I still have my autographed copy of the November '82 MR which had a major layout visit article on the V&O.
Not mentioned here was how many manufacturers have issued V&O freight cars - I have an old Train Miniature hopper that goes way back, but there have been many others. It is a totally believable and plausible paint and lettering scheme.
While Allen was the first to articulate the “beyond the basement” concept and how important it is to a realistic model railroad either prototype or “fauxtotype” it should be mentioned that Linn Westcott included a version of staging tracks in his famous “If I Had a Million” track plan. But those were just holding tracks not staging as Allen and others came to develop the concept.
As to the “good enough” phrase that Allen coined and advocated, it should not be confused for an excuse or justification for lazy or subpar modeling. While yes the V&O diesels were for the most part off-the-shelf commercial models, did you notice in one shot the re-railing frogs that had been added? And other small details as well.
Just loved this conversation about the V&O and Allen McClelland. What a great thinker and creative genius for model railroading. Glad that he still is modeling. Thanks for this segment.
As Tony pointed out you weren’t doing a eulogy for Allen, I am curious as to why Allen wasn’t there? I know he’s a pretty unassuming guy but it would have been nice to hear Allen’s philosophy about the concepts he developed in his own words. That being said I think Tony did a nice job of relating his friendship with Allen and relating the concepts of the V&O. I just think you missed an opportunity to visit and capture on video a person who I consider to be a pioneer in model railroading.
Thanks for another show. Really great and quite interesting
Most enjoyable conversation. I was fascinated by the first V&O - I believe it was in the late 70s and have followed Allen Mc.'s activities ever since. One of the giants in the hobby. So is Tony Koester, of course.
Perhaps we may be treated to an MRVP layout visit with Gerry Albers and his Virginian layout with, hopefully, Allen present as well.
Roundhouse lives!! Keep these great episodes coming. How about the Ohio Southern, Utah Belt or Sunset Valley next? We haven’t heard a peep about these layouts for awhile. In 1977, I was 10, but wore out 3 copies of the magazine with the OS in it, reading it time and time again. The V&O is a classic among classics. Just found a copy of The V&O Story on Ebay, worth the purchase.
Tony always has something interesting to say. This was a very good episode. I hadn’t realized Allen’s approach to model railroading was so innovative. I like to think that I am using some of that in my layout. Thanks for bringing us more of the story.
Another great Roundhouse segment!! I have met both Tony and Allen and they are both very gracious men and willing to share information. I have been a long time fan of both Allen and Tony and their concept of building and operating a “railroad” and not just a model railroad going back and forth. I too would like a program on the Ohio Southern and the Utah Belt and Dave Frary and his 2 foot modeling.
Thank you MODEL RAILROADER staff for such great and informative videos.
I had the honor of operating Gerry Alber’s layout last year. Spent a lot of time running over the V&O. Was dispatched by Allen. Every thing Tony said was true. Could not find a nicer person.
This has turned into such a high quality show, please keep them coming - maybe a little more frequently 
finally got an opportunity to watch this video. Like so many others Allen McClelland inspired me to build a layout that has purpose, a schedule and a reason for existing. Thanks so much Allen, all thinking modelers really appreciate it!