SWEDESBORO — Local modelers, including one in Swedesboro, are opening their homes on Nov. 26 to the public for viewing their efforts and interesting others in the hobby of model railroading.
These model railroads are open to view from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Masks are optional. There are no charges or entrance fees. Cameras are allowed. Children are encouraged to come.
Since November is National Model Railroad Month this has become an annual event enjoyed by many. These local railroads are operated year around by the South Jersey Operators group in an authentic reproduction of real railroad movements.
There is always something new to be seen in this the 26th year for these local open houses. The fascination with trains continues.
P. J. Mattson’s Raccoon Valley Railroad is at 129 East Ave., Swedesboro. A double track mainline runs through a fictional New Jersey setting from Swedesboro to the mountains of North Jersey with his own version of the Horseshoe Curve.
The town of Swedesboro is depicted including trucks full of tomatoes in the rail yard. The control system is Digitrax Digital Command Control (DCC). Trains can also be controlled by Cell Phones.
All the latest electronics, operating signals, radio control, sound and a central dispatch board distinguishes his road. Over half of his 60 locomotives operate with digital sound.
A Steel Mill is featured for additional unusual operation. His web site can be seen at http://raccoonvalleyrailroad.shutterfly.com
For more information on this and other railroad open houses, please visit http://modelrailroadopenhouse.com.
Open House Information
These model railroads will be open Saturday November 26th from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. for the public to view. Masks are optional. There are no charges or entrance fees. Cameras are allowed. Children are encouraged to come. Pick up information sheets at Swedesboro Hardware, Heritage’s Dairy Store and other locations in Swedesboro.
