An interesting location along any railroad is a junction. There is usually lots of activity as two different rail lines converge. The OWL module features a junction scene set in Southern Railway territory.
The HO scale module’s prominent feature is the at grade crossing of a branchline with the mainlines. The crossings are at 60 degrees and an interchange track connects the two lines. Also, a small interchange yard with a tank car unloading facility is featured on the module. A train station and an interlocking tower finish off the scene.
Benchwork for the module was constructed from 1×4 pine with plywood used for the subroadbed. Hills were added towards the back of the module as well as along the front edge using Styrofoam insulation covered with Sculptamold. The trees are all from Woodland Scenics and covered with poly fiber and appropriate ground foam.
An overview photo of the module.
After serving successfully on the show circuit for eight years, from 1998 until 2006, the module was in serious need of an upgrade. The rejuvenation project included removing and replacing some of the scenery, adding folding legs, new wiring, and upgrading the buildings. With the renovations, the module should see plenty of more years carrying trains. In 2009, the module was sold to a member of the Southern Wisconsin Sandhouse Crew where it will hopefully serve for many more years.-Jim Spavins
