Here in New Braunfels there’s a semi-annual train show that I frequent. It’s a nice mix of displays and goodies for sale.
One thing I noticed today was that the shows give me an opportunity to see what I might like that I don’t know exists. I like to build my freight cars and can readily see much of what’s available of newer production. But as an example, I found two Athearn BB MOW kits (a box car and a gondola) to complement my three Walthers MOW UP passenger picked at clearance prices. So I was happy, plus found another BB 4-truck heavy flat car that I like (I see these on Ebay but am reluctant to add the shipping for such a small purchase).
Anyway, our local show seems to get better and better and I need to target the best DFW annual show since we visit Fort Worth lots.
I’ve been to the New Braunfels show a few times in the last 20 years. Its a nice drive from Houston, and the show is a “manageable” size without the rubber necker crowds of the big shows. I highly recommend it.
It’s been 14 years since I’ve been to the New Braunfels show. I thought about driving down this year from D/FW, but it just didn’t happen. I guess I’ll be headed to Discount Model Trains sometime this week since I need a decoder and a few other odds and ends.
I was at the New Braunfel’s show yesterday and IMHO it is better than Houston. Had a lot of layouts, activities for the kids and a lot of vendors. I am a little disappointed at some of the vendors that sell everything at retail prices. At a show we are looking for bargins.
“peahrens” 4-truck heavy flat car that I like (I see these on Ebay but am reluctant to add the shipping for such a small purchase).
Thats one of the big advantages of train shows over ebay plus seeing things in person, you may well discover that you like and want something that you would not consider just looking on eBay.
The best thing about train shows is that you can get things that most LHSes don’t carry. I usually can find one or two items that I wanted but had been discontinued, sometimes discontinued many years ago. Also, they are a great place for memorabilia. I love picking up old timetables, especially from the era and area I am modeling. There’s also no telling what else you might find that you would have never thought of even looking for. To me, it’s like being a kid in a candy store.
i enjoyed the show this weekend. Mix of vendors ran from LHS (yes some higher prices but not that high IMO) type and your “getting rid of the old stuff” feel. Good mix of layouts too plus i stopped by the PHX Saloon for lunch haha, beer and trains.