You and your family are invited to join in
the fun of large scale model railroading. Families can combine many interests, including model
railroading, gardening, crafts, and more. One of the best ways of learning about large scale
outdoor garden railroading is through sharing the experience and knowledge of other enthusiasts.
The Chicago Area Garden Railway Society is a group of friendly men and women dedicated to the
sharing of their knowledge about this rapidly growing hobby. Club dues are $20.00 per year,
beginning January 1 and are reduced $5.00 per quarter after that.
A few garden railroad enthusiasts formed the club in 1990. Today it has about 192 members
located primarily in Illinois, Southern Wisconsin, and Northern Indiana. The members collect
and operate model trains made by all of the major large scale manufacturers. Many members
"scratch build" rolling stock and structures. A monthly newsletter is published and distributed
to all club members. Each newsletter contains a calendar of events for the upcoming month(s).
Monthly club activities include a member meeting, how-to clinics, model railroad shows, visits to member railroads. In addition, semi-annual gatherings for banquets, raffles, silent auctions, and other model railroad activities are planned each year. All of these activities serve as a catalyst for the sharing process of young and old alike.
There are many good sources of information about Garden Railroading: several magazines, area hobby shops, internet sites, local library books, and best of all, other CAGRS members.