Nat'l model train show convention in CT

Hartford (WTNH) - For the first time ever the National Model Railroad Association is holding its national convention here in Connecticut. Enthusiasts from across the nation are gathering at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford starting Friday.

Bill Evans of the Mohegan-Pequot Model Rail Road Club is coordinator for the Hartford Convention.

"We've spent about two years preparing these modules for this particular show," said Evans. "It's a once in a lifetime opportunity for the group; for us to show the country what model rail roading in Southeastern Connecticut is all about."

When everything is up and running, starting Friday, there will be over 37,000 square feet, the size of a football field, dedicated to simultaneously operating model train displays in all scales.

"For the model railroad enthusiast, they have every possible piece of merchandise you could possibly think of and that you need to help ya get into the spirit," said Evans.

Another local group, the Valley H.O. Trak has a module meticulously built to resemble the valley and New Haven area during the time of World War II.

"We're looking at Connecticut making machine tools and guns and tanks and this is the part of Connecticut where your grandfather and father went to work making stuff to help win the war," said Patrick Goedert.

The show is open to the public starting Friday and goes through Sunday until 5 P.M.