HARM Switchlist - June, 2026

Welcome aboard The HARM Switchlist, the monthly online bulletin of the Harford Associates for Railroad Modeling—where serious operations meet good company trackside. Each issue keeps members in the loop with a quick, friendly read: Pick-Ups looks back at the highlights and happenings from the past month, Set-Outs flags the upcoming sessions, events, and opportunities you won’t want to miss, and the YardMaster Report spotlights a member, organization, or manufacturer helping keep the hobby rolling. Whether you’re here for the timetable precision or the coffee-and-conversation crew, grab your orders and let’s get to work.

Pick-Ups

  • Scott W. attended the annual Erik Seidelmann N-Scale Gathering on May 2–3, 2026, in New Jersey, an event hosted each year by the New Jersey Southern modeling organization. Held at a local community center, the gathering brought together N-scale model railroaders and enthusiasts for a weekend dedicated to the hobby. The event featured several impressive modular layouts, including T-Trak, N-Trak, and Free-moN setups, each displaying unique scenery, operations, and modeling styles. Attendees enjoyed watching trains move across the layouts while exchanging ideas and techniques with fellow hobbyists. Several vendors were also present throughout the weekend, offering rolling stock, locomotives, structures, scenery materials, and other model railroad supplies. The event provided a welcoming atmosphere that highlighted both the creativity and strong sense of community found within the N-scale modeling world.

  • Alan F. spent time railfanning at the historic Aberdeen B&O Train Station on May 16, where he captured video of CSX action passing directly in front of the station. One of the highlights of the visit was catching a southbound CSX freight led by a heritage unit, creating an exciting scene against the backdrop of the classic railroad station. The combination of modern freight operations and the historic architecture of the former B&O station made for an especially memorable railfanning experience. Moments like these continue to draw railroad enthusiasts trackside, especially when special locomotives appear unexpectedly on busy mainline routes.

  • On the evening of Friday, May 29, 2026, several members of HARM gathered at Phil's house for a relaxing session of railfanning along the Northeast Corridor. From the comfort of his backyard, the group watched a steady parade of Amtrak and MARC passenger trains pass by as daylight gradually faded into dusk. Between train movements, members shared stories, discussed model railroading projects, and enjoyed the fellowship that has long been a hallmark of the group. The combination of pleasant weather, good company, and frequent passenger train action made for a memorable evening trackside.

Set-Outs

YardMaster Report

The Operations Special Interest Group (OpSIG) is a group within the model railroad hobby dedicated to promoting realistic railroad operations. Rather than focusing solely on scenery or train watching, OpSIG encourages hobbyists to recreate how real railroads function through organized train movements, freight switching, dispatching, signaling, and timetable-based operations. Members share ideas and techniques that help layouts operate with greater realism and purpose.

Through articles, clinics, operating sessions, and online resources, the Operations Special Interest Group has helped many model railroaders discover a deeper level of enjoyment in the hobby. The group publishes a quarterly magazine called The Dispatcher’s Office, offers its own Achievement Program focused on railroad operations, hosts regular Zoom meetings, and maintains an active Facebook community where members share ideas and experiences. Whether on a small switching layout or a large basement railroad, operations add teamwork, problem-solving, and realism that bring layouts to life. Membership in OpSIG costs only $10, making it an affordable way for model railroaders to gain access to valuable operational knowledge and connect with others who share an interest in realistic railroad operations.

HARM Switchlist - May, 2026

Welcome aboard The HARM Switchlist, the monthly online bulletin of the Harford Associates for Railroad Modeling—where serious operations meet good company trackside. Each issue keeps members in the loop with a quick, friendly read: Pick-Ups looks back at the highlights and happenings from the past month, Set-Outs flags the upcoming sessions, events, and opportunities you won’t want to miss, and the YardMaster Report spotlights a member, organization, or manufacturer helping keep the hobby rolling. Whether you’re here for the timetable precision or the coffee-and-conversation crew, grab your orders and let’s get to work.

Pick-Ups

  • On April 11, 2026, Andreas and Scott W. attended the Philadelphia Division NMRA-MER meet held at the Peter Becker Community in Harleysville, PA. The hosts provided an impressive spread, including fresh-baked muffins, donuts, Philly pretzels, and drinks. The meeting featured clinics presented by members Kevin Feeney and Steve Wysowski. Kevin’s clinic focused on using die-cast and toy vehicles on a model railroad, highlighting important considerations such as scale and level of detail. Steve, the Education Coordinator at the Colebrookdale Railroad in Boyertown, PA, spoke about the history of the railroad and his role there. Both presentations were engaging and informative. Additional activities included show-and-tell presentations, a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, and vendor tables. Following the meeting, attendees were invited to tour a 220-square-foot layout at the community center, built by residents. The HO scale, transition-era layout features steam through first- and second-generation diesel operations in the Mid-Atlantic region. It includes a double-tracked main line along with an HOn3 loop, and supports both DC and DCC operation. The layout was featured in the August 2025 issue of NMRA Magazine. The second layout visited, owned by Dr. Steve Wysowski, depicts his hometown of Darby, VT, in 1913 in HOn3 scale. The motive power consists of a mix of MDC kits and brass steam locomotives, all re-powered and re-geared by the owner. Structures are either kitbashed or scratch-built and include numerous detailed scenes. Overall, the meet was a fantastic experience and a great opportunity to see how other divisions host events.

  • April 18, 2026 featured visits to two historic railroad stations. The first stop was in Perryville, MD, where the semi-annual Perryville Railroad Historical Society Train Show was held. The station, built in 1905, dates to the construction of the Pennsylvania Railroad bridge across the Susquehanna River. Vendors included Conowingo Models, along with others offering used equipment, railroad-related items, photographs, and apparel.The second stop was the former B&O Railroad station in Aberdeen, MD, which was hosting an open house. The exterior of the station has been fully restored, while plans for the interior restoration are still underway. It is great to see these historic stations being preserved and brought back to life.

Set-Outs

YardMaster Report

  • Mudd Creek Models is a small, specialized manufacturer serving the model railroading community with a focus on detailed, prototypical structures and scenery products. The company primarily produces N-scale craftsman kit structures—true to its slogan, “N-scale kits of distinction”—catering to modelers who enjoy hands-on building and fine detail work, while also occasionally offering select items in HO scale.

    Owned and operated by Frank and Natalie, the business reflects a personal, hands-on approach. Their involvement is evident in the thoughtful design of each kit, with an emphasis on capturing the character of small-town and industrial railroad scenes.

    In addition to structure kits, Mudd Creek Models offers an extensive line of 3D-printed detail parts. These finely crafted components give modelers access to unique, highly specific details—from industrial equipment to trackside accessories—that enhance both realism and individuality on a layout.

    The company continues to expand its offerings and recently became a dealer for AK Interactive, providing modelers with access to high-quality paints, weathering products, and finishing supplies alongside their kits and details.

    With a strong reputation for craftsmanship, innovative use of 3D printing, and a focus on prototypical design, Mudd Creek Models remains a valued contributor to the hobby, especially for N-scale enthusiasts looking to bring their layouts to life.

    Pictured below are several Mudd Creek Models kits that have been built by member Scott W. He has several more that have not yet made it to the layout.

HARM Switchlist - April, 2026

Welcome aboard The HARM Switchlist, the monthly online bulletin of the Harford Associates for Railroad Modeling—where serious operations meet good company trackside. Each issue keeps members in the loop with a quick, friendly read: Pick-Ups looks back at the highlights and happenings from the past month, Set-Outs flags the upcoming sessions, events, and opportunities you won’t want to miss, and the YardMaster Report spotlights a member, organization, or manufacturer helping keep the hobby rolling. Whether you’re here for the timetable precision or the coffee-and-conversation crew, grab your orders and let’s get to work.

Pick-Ups

  • The highlight of the month was HARM hosting the NMRA-MER Chesapeake Division meeting at the Perryville Railroad Museum and Station (follow them on Facebook as well) on March 28, 2026. The venue was perfect, and the trains even cooperated. Rich Hafer of the Perryville Railroad Historical Society opened the meeting with an overview of the society and museum. Scott Wooddell presented on the history of railroads in Cecil County. Bill McAleese presented (via recorded video) on building Metcalfe Models cardboard structures. After the meeting, members toured several local layouts (Scott W., Bill F., Ken P., and Dave D.). Scott Wooddell was awarded two Achievement Certificates—Master Builder: Scenery and Chief Dispatcher—by Kurt Thompson, MER AP Manager; he also earned the Golden Spike Award earlier in the month. Many thanks go out to all the individuals that helped this event to be a success. This should encourage more division events in this part of the state.

Set-Outs

YardMaster Report

  • Conowingo Models is a small, specialized manufacturer in the model railroading hobby industry based in Conowingo, Maryland, known for producing detailed, craftsman-style kits in scales such as N, HO, O, and On30. Founded and operated by Chris Coarse, the company emphasizes hands-on building and creative customization, offering kits—often made from laser-cut wood with additional detail components—that allow hobbyists to interpret and personalize their projects rather than simply assemble pre-made parts. Its products stand out for their attention to subtle architectural features like roofing and foundations, enhancing realism while still encouraging flexibility and imagination. Drawing inspiration from real-world railroad prototypes, Conowingo Models blends authenticity with creative freedom, and it has expanded its offerings by incorporating and modernizing kits from other brands, including assets from Sugar Pine Models, sometimes using updated techniques like 3D printing, making it a popular choice for hobbyists who value craftsmanship, detail, and affordability over mass-produced simplicity.

  • Bill M. and Scott W. unknowingly tackled the same Conowingo Models Grey Street Company House kit at the same time—Bill on the HO version and Scott on the N scale. Bill’s HO build went smoothly: he replaced the provided rolled roofing with individually applied shingles, carefully completed paintwork, subtle weathering that brought out the siding and trim, and clean glazing that made the windows pop. Scott’s N scale version was rewarding: tiny parts required a steady hand and a magnifier, paint was applied with patience, and the final, compact model captured the same character as Bill’s larger house. Both finished with pride and complementary results.

HARM Switch List - March, 2026

Welcome aboard The HARM Switchlist, the monthly online bulletin of the Harford Associates for Railroad Modeling—where serious operations meet good company trackside. Each issue keeps members in the loop with a quick, friendly read: Pick-Ups looks back at the highlights and happenings from the past month, Set-Outs flags the upcoming sessions, events, and opportunities you won’t want to miss, and the YardMaster Report spotlights a member, organization, or manufacturer helping to keep the hobby rolling. Whether you’re here for the timetable precision or the coffee-and-conversation crew, grab your orders and let’s get to work.

Pick-Ups

  • Alan and Scott attended the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show the weekend of January 24. Due to the impending snowstorm, the weekend was cut short and they only attended the show on Saturday. Walking into the Amherst Railway Society Railroad Hobby Show for the first time was honestly overwhelming—in the best possible way. The sheer size of the show, packed with operating layouts, vendors, and crowds of enthusiastic modelers, made it feel like the Super Bowl of the hobby. They especially enjoyed seeing the different scales in action and talking with friendly exhibitors who were eager to share tips. It was a full day of inspiration, but it may be a few years before they venture back there again.

  • Running our T-Trak modules at the Great Scale Model Train Show in Timonium was a fun and rewarding experience. Bill M., Alan, and Scott handled the setup for the January 31–February 1 weekend, arranging the modules into an eye-catching T-shaped configuration that came together smoothly thanks to the modular design. Once trains started rolling, the layout drew a steady stream of interested visitors. It was especially enjoyable coordinating operations with fellow modelers and seeing how the combined modules created a seamless, lively railroad, leading to plenty of great conversations and new ideas for future setups. Many members also visited the train show over the weekend to gain inspiration for the various modular layouts or pickup supplies and equipment for their own model railroads.

Set-Outs

  • On Thursday, March 12, 2026, Scott W will be making a presentation to the Oxford Area Historical Association about the “Railroads of Oxford”. The presentation will be at 7 pm at the Ware Presbyterian Village (1162 Kensington Lane, Oxford, PA 19363) in the Auditorium at Vista Ridge Pavilion. Before the presentation, the Ware Village Model Railroad Club will be open at 6:30pm.

  • HARM is pleased to host the March 28, 2026 NMRA Mid-Eastern Region Chesapeake Division meeting at the Perryville Railroad Station and Museum. The program will feature presentations by members along with tours of local layouts, making it a great opportunity to share ideas and enjoy some outstanding modeling. If you’re interested in giving a presentation and/or opening your layout for the tour, please let us know—we’d love to include you in the day’s lineup. Doors open at 9:30am, meeting is 10am-noon, open houses from 1-4pm.

YardMaster Report

  • The National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) is the world’s leading organization dedicated to advancing the model railroading hobby through standards, education, and community. Founded in 1935, the NMRA develops widely used technical standards and recommended practices that help ensure equipment from different manufacturers works smoothly together. Beyond standards, the NMRA offers a wealth of resources including clinics, conventions, publications, and the respected Achievement Program that recognizes modeling skills.

The Passing of HARM Co-Founder and MMR #35

David E. Renard

January 9, 1936 – April 7, 2025

In Memoriam: David Renard, MMR #35, passed away on April 7, 2025. To the model railroading community, Dave was a Master Model Railroader. To us, he was a mentor, a friend, and a storyteller whose legacy will continue to roll on-car by car, mile by mile.

Dave Renard was a passionate model railroader from his teenage years and co-founded the Harford Associates for Railroad Modeling, HARM for short. He was particularly proud of earning the designation of Master Model Railroader (#35, 1971) from the National Model Railroad Association. Dave has won multiple awards for his models over the years from the NMRA and his work has been featured in the Railroad Model Craftsman Magazine on several occasions.

Dave’s personal railroad, the Sylvania Central Railroad was begun in 1965 and he continued to work on and improve his layout for over fifty years until the railroad was dismantled in 2017. The modest sized layout (approximately 10’ x 20’) allowed Dave to create a railroad with a level of intricate details that would rival and surpass museum quality displays. Everything featured on his railroad, from the structures to the track itself, was all built by his own hands; he was a master of scratch-building. Dave also put considerable work into several iterations of a club layout located on a local Army base, The Tidewater & Allegheny. Over the years, Dave built numerous structures, rolling stock, locomotives, and custom trackwork for members of our local model railroading club and community. Many pieces of his work continue to serve on layouts around the country.

Throughout his model railroading career, Dave was a member of several related organizations. His first experience with a club was in Pennsylvania at the Greater Abington Township Society of Model Engineers (GATSME). Shortly after joining this club, he got involved with the NMRA by attending Mid-Eastern Region conventions, where he began entering models for judging. These experiences led him to becoming a judge and gave him the opportunity to closely study some fine models and techniques, which in turn added to his modeling ideas and skills. A move to Edgewood, MD had him discover a small model railroad club where he worked as an environmental engineer at Edgewood Arsenal. Throughout this time, he continued to attend regional and national conventions as well as heading out on rail-fanning trips with friends. Through his MER membership, Dave held many different officer positions, including Editor of The Local (newsletter), Regional Contest Chairman, Regional Secretary, Vice President, President and National Trustee, and Eastern Vice President. His membership in the NMRA helped facilitate him being able to take his family to all 50 states, partially to attend NMRA conventions.

The founding of HARM with fellow model railroader Russ Cook allowed them to expand their model railroading influence to many other like-minded individuals. The group has been featured in several local newspaper articles. Dave also wrote two articles for Railroad Model Craftsman Magazine about the group called “In HARM’s Way”. This is a most compatible group that shares and learns from each other. As an extension of the group, Dave and Russ taught an 8-week, non-credit, evening class about model railroading at a local community college for about 25 years. After Russ passed away in 2001, Dave continued to teach the class for several more years until eventually passing on the duties to another local model railroader. Experiences in the class always included tours of the local model railroads and promotion of the NMRA. There is no way to know just how many people have been influenced in this hobby by Dave over the years through his leadership, teaching, and friendship.

In every carefully laid rail and hand-built structure, Dave told a story—not just of railroads, but of patience, imagination, and heart. He was more than a Master Model Railroader—he was a master of bringing dreams to life in miniature. David Renard was 89 years young when he passed, and with his passing a veritable library of railroading knowledge and modeling skill has been lost.

Scale Speed Calculator

A new Scale Speed Calculator is available on this website for everyone to use. Just enter the distance the train travels (in inches), the time it takes to travel that distance (in seconds) and the scale you would like to convert to and click the calculate button. The scale speed will be displayed below the calculate button. If there are any modifications or changes you would like to suggest for this new feature, please let us know (admin@harm-web.org). This new feature can be found on our Resources page or by following this link (https://www.harm-web.org/scale-speed).

HARM Member Passing

On Monday, July 29, 2024, HARM lost a long standing member of the group in Stephen Fisher. Steve had been a member since about 1992 when he lived in Hartford County, MD. He spent the last several decades of his life with his wife Charlyn in Kennedyville, MD on the eastern shore. At this residence, he built several versions of his Deep Run Railroad. From On30 to an “unusual” scale of 3/8n40. He was also a pioneer in converting his layout from running on DC track power to dead rail with batteries and wireless receivers in the locomotives. Steve was a master of scratch building structures, most often without any formal plans and just positioning walls together until they “looked good”. Much of his work has been featured in model railroading magazines and can be found elsewhere on this website. He had a wonderful sense of humor and lived life to the fullest.

Stephen Fisher Obituary

T-Trak Layout with BANTRAK

On Sunday, December 4, 2022, several HARM members coordinated with members from BANTRAK (Baltimore Area N-Trak) and the Kapuscinski family to setup and operate a good sized T-Trak layout at Roland Park Place in Baltimore, MD. Resident, Arthur Boyd was the host for the group and invited other residents to come visit the layout and enjoy the trains from 10am - 5pm. T-Trak modules come in various sizes, with the base single modules being approximately 12 inches by 12 inches. Our layout was built in a “Z” shape with 18 single modules, 22 double modules, 1 quad module, and 10 corners. The overall length was approximately 80 feet of track in each direction (double track main line). The residents and families that visited the layout were very grateful for our time and passion in model railroading. They asked many questions about the trains, buildings, and our module designs. A great time was had by everyone involved and we look forward to participating in something like this again.

Click here for a video of trains running.