These pages document my attempt at modeling a small portion of the Chartiers Branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad in S-scale. Lots of prototype and modeling information is provided here. When I got back into model railroading in 1999, I was drawn to the colors of the PRR's engines (Brunswick Green and Tuscan Red); it really was just that simple. Later, as I studied and learned more about the PRR and its history, I became hooked. When I switched from modeling in N- to S-scale, I decided to focus on a branch line. The PRR had lots of branch lines. After some extensive research I decided to model the Chartiers Branch. See the Research topic below for more information about this branch.
Layout Milestones
- 07-21-2008 - The layout was officially started.
- 10-16-2008 - The benchwork was completed.
- 12-04-2008 - The sub-roadbed was completed.
- 04-14-2009 - Two scratch-built bridges completed.
- 07-21-2009 - First anniversary.
- 12-25-2009 - All track work completed (scale: 3,040 feet, actual: 47.5 feet, 11 turnouts, one crossing).
- 07-21-2010 - Second anniversary.
- 12-05-2010 - As of this date, this is my longest-lasting layout!
- 02-16-2011 - Spent the year 2010 building engine and car kits I had bought.
- 03-02-2011 - Basic scenery shell completed.
- 05-09-2011 - First structure built and installed.
- 07-21-2011 - Third anniversary.
Layout Basics
- 08-06-2008 - Introduction
- 11-27-2010 - Research
- 04-14-2010 - Designs
- 08-08-2008 - Room Preparations
- 03-21-2010 - Benchwork Construction
- 01-01-2010 - Utility Panel
Layout Progress
- 12-02-2011 - Canonsburg, PA
- 11-15-2011 - Shingiss, PA
- 10-29-2011 - Washington, PA
- 09-22-2011 - Engine Servicing Facility, Washington, PA
- 10-22-2011 - Just some cool shots!
The layout is shaped like a "U", with Washington, PA on the left, the community of Shingiss, PA in the center (up, behind the hill), and Canonsburg, PA on the right. The photo below was taken on June 5th, 2011. You can click on the image to see a much larger view. The room's entrance is to the right of the photo, and the room's closet is to the left of the photo. At the time of the photo shoot, everything is finished, except for the various structures. The land will eventually be converted into roads, structures, and other details.
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