Model train show brings out hobby enthusiasts

Special to the Eagle
Published: September 19, 2008

Attention all model railroading fans — it’s time for the 18th Annual Wiregrass Model Railroad Show and Sale.

Set for this weekend at the National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds in Dothan, the show is expected to draw model railroading equipment dealers and enthusiasts from throughout the region.

“... It is one of the best-known and most popular model railroad shows in our entire region and attracts vendors and show attendees from the entire Southeast,” said Danny Lewis, president of the Wiregrass Heritage Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society, the show’s sponsor. “Our vendors always tell us it is one of the best model railroad shows they attend every year.”

The two-day event, Lewis said, has something for all ages to enjoy.

“We try to make each annual show unique with new vendors, layouts or other features to ensure that every show is different from prior events,” Lewis said. “A special feature this year will be an outdoor train ride for children to enjoy.”

The model railroad show will be in the main exhibit building at the Peanut Festival fairgrounds, and Lewis said the show will feature more than 140 dealer tables and several large operating model railroad layouts.

“We have always kept the admission price low so entire families can come and spend as long as they want enjoying all the trains,” he said. “We especially encourage parents to bring their children because the youngsters represent the future of model railroading, and we want them to learn about this great hobby.”

Proceeds from the event are used by the Wiregrass Heritage Chapter, a non-profit group, to support various chapter projects in the Wiregrass area.

Dealers at the show will be able answer questions about model railroading and some dealers will also be open to purchasing older model trains, so anyone who has a train they are interested in selling is encouraged to attend the show.

“There’s almost nowhere else you can go and see so many different kinds of trains and model railroading supplies in one place,” Lewis said. “Whether you just like to watch the trains run on the layouts or need something special for your own layout, you will likely find something you will like at our show.”

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If you go ...
What: 18th Annual Wiregrass Model Railroad Show and Sale.
When: Saturday, Sept. 20, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, three miles south of Dothan on U.S. 231 South.
Cost: Admission is $5 for adults; free for children age 12 and under accompanied by an adult.