Jim
Hellwege's Bangor and Aroostook
Mark Andersen
Designed around a U layout shaped walk around layout, Jim’s N scale
empire covers a 12‘ by 8’ space in his basement. The idea of
the layout was for “fun,” not operations, although an operations system
could be incorporated with the numerous industries on the three folded
dogbone loops on this scenery covered railroad. Bulletproof
running of train consists continue courtesy of Peco switches and flex
track. A unique roadbed system, Instant Roadbed by AMI,
anchors all track and covers the many roads navigating this layout.
Many
changes have been added since our last visit some 5 years
ago. These include different scenes and little vignettes here
and there. A Boy Scout camping activity, complete with tents
and scouts, an A framed mountain top home and firewood splitting
homeowner and a hand built brass etched fire tower atop one of the
Hellwege division mountain peaks.
Aside
from the collection of B & A rolling stock, are the many
different versions of Bangor and Aroostook motive power. Over
the years many versions, custom painted and the repainting of several
diesels have been added to the roster of the Hellwegge
division. These range from 4 axle hood units to the 6 axle
power houses of today.
Not
to be outdone with adding to his layout, is his interest in scouting
and fostering model railroading with today’s youth. Jim has
sponsored and awarded railroad merit badges with several scouts in his
troop. Concerned with railroad safety and motivating scout
interests in model railroading, he stepped forward to encourage them
earning this award.
We
want “Thank” Jim for his longstanding efforts in scouting and opening
his home and layout for us to view. We look forward to our
next tour…….
Jalbum
8.2
