First Operations

After test running the layout, I held a brief , informal, operating session with my Dad and Grandfather. The layout took about half an hour to operate informally, and was very enjoyable. It takes about two minutes for a train to operate between two ends of the layout at very slow speeds.

We operated a three car train to Norway and spent around twenty to twenty five minutes switching the yard. We left town with a short, two car train. Here are some photos of the operating session.

A Grand Trunk Western boxcar is set out at the lumberyard. 

The locomotive heads to switch the team track.

The locomotive returns from switching the lumberyard.

Norway has been switched and the train back to Portland is being made on the passing siding.

The train is ready to leave and the crew is taking a break before leaving for the return trip to Portland.

The train begins to leave Norway yard.

The train has arrived at the end of the layout.

Looking at the train from what will eventually be a hillside by the track at the end of the layout.