A Load of… Loads

The “Big Hobby Show” run by the Amherst Railway Society that’s held in West Springfield, MA* is among the largest model train shows in the country. With the exception of one year where I had to travel out the country for work, I’ve gone every year for about the last 30.

It really is a spectacle that every modeler should see at least once.

Last night, after the main part of my monthly Mastermind meeting wrapped up, a bunch of the members and I got to talking about the show and how you have to have a strategy for some of the vendors to make sure you don’t miss out on some things.

One of those is The Load Man who makes some really, really nice open car loads. I promised the Masterminds I would share photos of some of the loads I’ve picked up in the past, and I decided to share them here, as well. because, well, why not share the wealth? (Plus I’ve been a total slacker about posting here for a long time.)

So here we go.

Here are the three loads I’ve purchased over the last few years.
First is this pipe load. It came banded, and with the bulkheads already built.
Bethlehem Steel is one of the industries that gets served off-layout on the MCTD, so the markings are perfect.
Likewise, this steel plate is marked for Bethlehem.
I love the weathering and the white markings.
The detail on the supplied rack is very nice, too.
Finally is this beam load.
Once again, the markings and the Beth Steel labels make this a very nice, layout appropriate addition.

Bethlehem Steel is not the only mill that gets love, so if that’s not your bag, you’re not completely out of luck.

Maybe it was a mistake to share this before the show, but honestly if he’s sold out before I get there, it’s money I won’t be really Really REALLY tempted to spend.

Incidentally, if your modeling is stalled and you need help setting and sticking to your modeling goals, that’s what Mastermind is all about. If you’re interested, you can sign up by going to my Patreon and choosing the SD60M tier. Or reach out for more info.

*FWIW, West Springfield is the closest thing to a home town as I have.

BYJoe Parker ON POSTED INLocomotives & Rolling Stock Operations