Slated for Feb. 27-28, the show should bring in more than 2,500 people to the area. Bruce Gathman, chairman of the event, said. “We had over 1,500 adults attend last year’s show, and probably 800 children under 10 years old, who are admitted free with an adult, even with the bad snowstorm.”
With 13 previous shows under their belt, Gathman said, “The event is only getting better, attracting an array of vendors who offer an assortment of train memorabilia, operating model trains including live steam, and a selection of fun activities for children. Young kids don’t see trains as much as we use to see them. This gives them the opportunity to understand trains, and what they are about.”
Prior events brought in train enthusiast from five surrounding states, and the 50-member, Central-based association is hoping to expand upon that number.
“We are sending fliers all over the southeast”, Gathman said. “The Bagwell Gymnasium gives us good lighting and plenty of room. We are excited about being able to hold it again this year in the city of Easley.”
Gathman said his appreciation of trains started at an early age, when his father was gone during World War II. “My mother would take me to the train depot and we would watch trains coming into the station. This can become a lifetime hobby once you start doing it.”
”The romance surrounding the old steam locomotives enticed the first enthusiasts of trains. But while the romantic intrigue is not so much with the modern engines of today, trains continue to capture the minds of many. The lure of the railroad — I can’t explain it — but there’s a whole culture of rail enthusiasts. There are people who can readily identify makes and models of locomotives, and some who keep track of the number of cars of each train. The railroad is simply intriguing.”
With the show just a short time away, the Central Railway Model and Historical Association, Inc. is planning for the 2010 event to be the best in their history. In addition to the over 150 dealer tables, a model of Thomas the Tank and James the Red Engine will be on hand for children to operate, while a full-size motor car will be available for kids to have their photograph taken on for free.
”It’s going to be a great experience,” Gathman said.
The show will be held in the Bagwell Gymnasium, on Saturday, Feb. 27, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 28, from Noon until 5 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults with children under 10 being admitted free with a paid adult.
For more information, visit the clubs’ Web site at www.crmha.org.
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