Shameless bump. Hoping for more responses…
My layout room is my place for “sanity breaks”. No matter what hands are dealt to me by the real world, I can take time out for me, myself, and I. [:)]
Tom, for me, it’s kind of like your # 1 - a history lesson but it goes a bit further. In reading about “my” prototype I find myself branching off into other areas touched by the railroads - mostly the industries and the people who worked them. Not just the magnates, but the working class who got their hands dirty - in many cases risked life and limb to earn a living. I’ve heard and read some fascinating stories and in turn gained a tremendous respect for their efforts.
This in turn makes me think about every element I add to my plan. I guess that makes me a more thoughtful modeler - not better, just more thoughtful. Does that make sense?
Jim,
Absolutely! Understanding the hows and whys of the way things were done and how it affected the lives of all those who benefitted from the railroads (employees and consumers alike) really opens up your view of life during a particular era - even how certain decisions and changes might have ultimately affected the industry and life as a whole years down the road.
Thanks for elaborating on that more, Jim. That’s what I really had in mind when I mentioned history in my original post. [:)]
Tom