Model railroad club invites kids to operate trains

Watching trains run around a large HO model railroad layout is fun, but what's even more fun is having a chance to operate the trains yourself.

At the 65th annual Valley Model Railroad Club's open house and food drive, kids - and adults - will have this opportunity. The event is from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21; 1 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22; and 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov 23, at 33W519 Kenyon Road, South Elgin. Admission is free, but a food pantry donation is requested.

"It's one of the few events that lets kids actually control the trains," said Duane Tuma of West Dundee, publicity chairperson.

There are up to 15 DCC controlled trains running at a time, Tuma said. The trains feature computer-controlled smoke, sound, and lights. Under a dispatcher's instructions, kids will be allowed to take the controls of some of the trains and trolleys.

There will also be a raffle with prizes, all pertaining to trains. Those who bring in a canned food item will receive a free raffle ticket as well. Raffle tickets are $1 each or six for $5. All food will be donated to the South Elgin Food Pantry.

"We are hoping to double our food donations from last years' 500 pounds," Tuma said.

All types of model trains will be at the event, from 1940s steam engines to modern trains. Tuma said the open house is designed to be an interactive, hands-on experience.

The Valley Model Railroad Association was established in 1949 and has been growing ever since. There are about 50 members in the association, train enthusiasts young and old.

"There are families who are all members," Tuma said. "It's great to see everyone together at the meetings."

The association meetings - and the open house - are held at the Clintonville Station, which was once part of the Chicago Elgin and Aurora Railway and is now along the Illinois Prairie Path.

"We have been preparing for this event for about three months, cleaning and making sure everything works for opening night," Tuma said.

Anyone can join the Valley Model Railroad Association and become a junior or senior member and eventually a retired member. There are all kinds of members, ones who worked for trains, built locomotives and those who are just interested in learning more about trains.

"My favorite part of the event is being able to talk about the history of the trains and the building and teaching people how to work the trains," Tuma said.

For details, visit VMRR.org/.