My freelanced HO layout is based on prototype design and operations, consisting of a modern Class-1 mainline interchanging with two modern short lines that were previously branch lines of the Class-1 railroad, sold to private investors and former railroad executives. Mainline track is owned by the BNSF, and per modern prototype practices, allows run-through traffic from many other railroads. The short lines reflect well-maintained and well-run railroads, complete with sharp looking unique paint schemes.
The mainline will be fully signalled and dispatcher controlled, while the short lines will be ‘dark’ without signals, given only one train will be working the out-and-back line at any one time. Several large customers support the short lines, and many other industries will keep switching crews busy for most of the operating session.
The layout occupies approximately 3,000 sf, including a crew lounge, dispatcher’s office and restroom. The single-track mainline is approximately 640 lineal feet including two helices, with multiple dispatcher-controlled passing sidings. The staging yard consists of 13 tracks, while the classification yard includes 8 tracks plus 3 arrival/departure tracks, supported by full engine servicing and maintenance facilities. Each short line is in excess of 200 lineal feet, serviced by dedicated morning and afternoon daily local turns.
Interior basement walls and initial benchwork started while my home was under construction, with layout construction officially starting early in 2025. I’ve been helped immensely by my dedicated crew, for which I am truly grateful. We look forward to your visit during the Piedmont Pilgrimage to see our progress!
Scale / Gauge
HO
Size of Layout
60x50
Prototype
Freelance
Location Modeled
Fictitious representation of many areas of the U.S.
Era
Modern
Style of Track Plan
Linear along the basement walls
Length of Main Line
640'
Layout Height
Lower 46 / Upper 72"
Benchwork
Open Grid
Roadbed Material
Cork
Track Manufacturer
Walthers
Turnouts
Walthers
Minimum Main Line Radius
42"
Maximum Grade
2 %
Scenery Techniques
Cardboard webbing with plaster cloth, plaster of paris rock molds, painted and covered in ground foam, real rock talus, poly fiber bushes and a variety of trees
Backdrop
Painted Masonite
Control System
DCC - other
Car Forwarding System
Switch List
Train Authority / Dispatching
CTC
Operating Group
Private
Direction Comment
Park in the gravel lot immediately to the left as you enter the driveway. Park diagonally against the right side railroad ties. Walk down the gravel path to the basement door and let yourself in.
Wheelchair Accessible
ADA Comments
There is a gravel path from the gravel parking area to the basement door, without steps, but it is not paved
