I created this name not based on any prototype, but because the
initials stand for my collegiate alma mater Ohio University. I've
modeled in HO Scale since high school and over the years have built a
number of layouts. The photos below are of my current layout.
I tend to enjoy the beginning phases of a layout such as bench work, track
laying, and initial phases of scenery more than the details of
completion. However, in photos it appears more complete than it
really is. I'm a solo modeler therefore I am pleased to share these
photos.
The layout is in HO Scale. It is approximately 13 by 13 feet with
an around-the-room design. There is a center 3 by 6 foot peninsula
that serves several industries. The track plan has a double track
main that circles the entire layout and is used for through freights and
off-line industrial destinations. There is an third inner track that also circles the entire
layout. The third inner track has all the the industries served by
the layout and is serviced by a local train using a card-forwarding system.
The inner loop has three separate switching areas and towns with
approximately12 industrial locations. Subsequently, I can run three
trains at a time. The yard area serves as a classification and
storage area. After a car returns from an industry it is picked up
by a through freight on one of the outer tracks. Digitrax DCC is
used for power.
The layout is accessed through a swing-out section with three tracks on
it. It is designed and scenic as a river gorge and has one double
track bridge and one single branch bridge. The construction came
from an idea I saw years ago in either Model Railroader or Model Railroad
Craftsman.
The first group of pictures are the beginning phases of the
layout. I started it in the summer of 2004. Updated
photos from late 2008 and early 2009 are below.
