The 2026 Mid-Atlantic Railroad Prototype Modelers (MARPM) Meet, held October 1–4 in the Baltimore area, brought together model railroaders for several days of clinics, layout tours, operating sessions, model displays, and plenty of opportunities to exchange ideas. Several members of Harford Associates for Railroad Modeling (HARM) attended the event, taking advantage of the opportunity to learn new techniques, visit outstanding layouts, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow model railroaders.
Clinics and Hands-On Learning
One of the major attractions of MARPM is its extensive selection of clinics covering prototype railroading, modeling techniques, and layout design. The presentations offer something for modelers of all scales and experience levels.
HARM member John Zdanis particularly enjoyed the hands-on weathering clinic, where participants brought their own rolling stock to practice techniques they could immediately apply to their models. John also found the clinics on small layout design especially interesting, offering practical ideas for modelers working with limited space.
Greg Meeks appreciated the opportunity to see actual models discussed during the clinics. Todd Hermann brought several structures featured in his presentation, allowing attendees to examine the finished models up close and better understand the techniques used in their construction.
Layout Tours and Operating Sessions
Layout visits and operating sessions are always popular activities at MARPM, giving attendees opportunities to see how other modelers approach layout design, scenery, and realistic railroad operations.
John Zdanis participated in an operating session on Jeff Mutter's railroad, describing it as a great-looking layout with smooth operations and an enjoyable operating experience. He hopes to have an opportunity to return for another session.
Although his schedule did not allow him to participate in an operating session, Greg Meeks visited four layouts during Friday's open houses, each offering a different perspective on prototype modeling.
Lance Mindheim's Miami Downtown Spur: Greg had previously attended a clinic about the layout and was pleased to finally visit it. He particularly appreciated its realistic portrayal of everyday Miami railroading, focusing on local switching and the routine work of serving industries. The layout demonstrates how ordinary railroad operations can be fascinating when modeled accurately.
Kelly Regan's B&O Georgetown Branch: A well-researched and carefully modeled representation of this Baltimore & Ohio branch line. Greg had visited previously and noted the continued progress on the layout, which attracted considerable interest from visitors.
David Vaughn's Nickel Plate/Canandaigua Southern: An impressive O-scale railroad incorporating a substantial portion of John Armstrong's legendary Canandaigua Southern, along with other notable O-scale modeling and Vaughn's own Nickel Plate. Greg described the layout as unique and special. Visitors were even invited to take a throttle and operate trains during their visit.
Andrew Dodge's Central Maine: Another remarkable O-scale layout featuring impressive locomotives and distinctive waterfront scenes, including a passenger vessel and a barge tender. Greg noted Dodge's transition from his previous Colorado Midland layout as a reminder that model railroads are constantly evolving and that opportunities to visit them should not be missed.
These visits provided plenty of inspiration and demonstrated the wide variety of approaches modelers take to recreate prototype railroading.
N-Scale T-TRAK Makes an Impression
A new addition to this year's MARPM Meet was a prototype-inspired N-scale T-TRAK layout presented by Scott Wahl and HARM member Ed Kapuscinski. Ed was particularly involved in the setup, which featured approximately 15 modules demonstrating the possibilities of prototype modeling within the popular T-TRAK modular format.
The display included a variety of detailed scenes and creative modeling techniques. Greg Meeks was particularly impressed by the sky and cloud lighting effects on Scott Wahl's modules, describing them as a showstopper.
The layout demonstrated that T-TRAK is not limited to simple modular displays. With thoughtful planning, prototype inspiration, and attention to detail, the format can support highly realistic modeling while retaining the flexibility and portability that make it popular with N-scale enthusiasts.
Models, Raffles, and Camaraderie
Beyond the clinics and layout tours, the model display and vendor room provided additional opportunities to examine outstanding models, discover new products, and exchange ideas with other hobbyists.
Greg Meeks emphasized that one of his favorite aspects of MARPM is the knowledge sharing and camaraderie among attendees. The opportunity to talk with other modelers, learn from their experiences, and see their latest projects makes the event a valuable learning experience.
The meet's raffle was another popular attraction, offering a wide selection of prizes and plenty of opportunities for attendees to take something home.
As anyone who participates in HARM's weekly gatherings knows, some of the best parts of model railroading happen when modelers get together to share ideas, solve problems, and enjoy each other's company. MARPM provides another excellent opportunity to experience that same spirit on a larger scale.
Another Successful MARPM Meet
The 2026 MARPM Meet offered a great combination of learning, inspiration, and fellowship. Whether participating in an operating session, visiting a layout, attending a clinic, or examining models on display, there was something for everyone.
Events like MARPM are valuable even for modelers who do not strictly follow a particular prototype. The modeling techniques, layout design ideas, and operational concepts presented throughout the weekend can be applied to railroads of virtually any scale or era.
HARM encourages members to attend events like MARPM and take advantage of opportunities to visit layouts, participate in operating sessions, and learn from fellow model railroaders.
Thanks to the MARPM organizers, clinicians, layout hosts, vendors, and volunteers for another successful meet. Special thanks to HARM members John Zdanis, Greg Meeks, Kelly Regan, and Ed Kapuscinski for sharing their experiences and helping document the event.
We look forward to next year's MARPM Meet!