Over the past 10 years this blog has proved to be a resource to model railroaders all over the world, more so than I ever expected. Thus, I’ve decided to start the process of updating the site to a more modern layout. This will also include new/updated wiring and how-to diagrams. 

You can now access this site through the new www.tysmodelrailroad.com URL.

In June of 2017 I relocated to Edmonton. Unfortunately, I had to remove my layout from my basement and was unable to take it with me. On March 25, 2017, my layout met its fate and it was dismantled. Though the plaster scenery was not salvageable, the buildings, trees, and most of the electronics were saved and sold to local model railroaders. Taking it all apart was bittersweet. Seeing what took years to build come apart in mere minutes was tough. On the other hand, it was a learning project and I had gotten everything I could out of it. The time was right to move on. 

Though I currently don’t have the room for a full layout, I definitely want to get back into model railroading. My short-term plan is to further develop my skills with small items like custom structures and electronics as well as weathering/detailing engines and rolling stock. These smaller projects will be updated on this blog. This will all lead into my long-term plan of developing a new, full-size prototypical HO layout. Stay tuned, there’s a lot more to come.

The newest addition to my collection, a Rapido GMD-1 1100 series replica of diesel engine #1118 from the Alberta Prairie Railroad. This model was given to me as a gift from my employer, which is one of the most unique and thoughtful thank-you gifts I’ve ever received. Best of all, the engine is local and is still in service today. 

The engine itself runs on a daily excursion line (Alberta Prairie Railroad Excursions) between Stettler and Big Valley, right here in Alberta, Canada. The Excursion line features mostly older steam engines, however the GMD-1 #1118 is used to help out when needed. This model from Rapido, in association with MLW, is available in both DC and DCC, and comes in several road numbers and paint schemes. Furthermore, sounds for this model were all recorded directly from engine #1118.