Model Train Show Chugs Into WDM This Weekend

Moose Jaw Thunder Creek Model Train Show

Western Development Museum - 50 Diefenbaker Drive

Saturday March 18 - Sunday March 19 from 9 am to 5 pm

Regular Admission Applies - FREE Event for WDM Members

By Robert Thomas

Twice a year Moose Jaw's branch of the Western Development Museum (WDM) opens two tills for museum admission.

One is the ever popular BricksPro the other will - after a four year hiatus due to the COVID 19 pandemic - be taking place this weekend.

This weekend thousands of visitors are expected to turn out as the Thunder Creek Model Railroad Club chugs into the WDM with their 25th annual 25th Annual Model Train Show.

The show will feature not just local exhibitors but also exhibitors from across Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba.

“We are just thrilled to have them back,” Karla Rasmussen the Education/Public Programs Coordinator at the local WDM told MJ Independent.

Rasmussen said the popularity of the show comes from not only the intricate work, pride and friendliness of the exhibitors but also the love of trains so many people have.

“I think trains are one of those things that are a timeless thing for many people,” she said, adding “it’s a child like inquisitivety so many people have. It’s a nostalgic thing.”

Rasmussen pointed to the permanent WDM railroad displays and their popularity with visitors to the museum about how many people are drawn to trains.

The attention to detail exhibitors have is something Rasmussen said personally attracts her.

“Many people come to check out the craftsmanship (in the displays).”

Rasmussen said the range of working model trains is not just contemporary trains but extends to steam locomotives and the appearance of the diesel/electric trains in the 1950's and 1960's.

She said there is lots to see for both the first time visitor to the show or a regular.

For the new visitor there is literally potential hours of displays to view.

“I’ve never seen everything,” she said about her own personal visits to the displays which fill all of the WDM's galleries.

For regular show attendees the four year pandemic hiatus will bring surprises as exhibitors have updated and improved their displays.

“There will be lots of new features (to explore).”

“The displays are never truly done. They are very much perfectionists and always improving things,” Rasmussen said.

Another major draw of the show is the friendliness of the exhibitors who freely discuss their creations with attendees.

“All of the exhibitors are passionate about their creations…they are happy to have people pick their brains. They are very proud of their work,” Rasmussen said.

The show is not just to show off their exhibits but also to create interest in the hobby.

Additionally there will be vendors who will be selling parts and train components.

It’s an opportunity for people with childhood or other trains to find the parts to get them running.

The two day event is free to WDM members as “one of the perks of a membership.”

For others entrance to the show is through your regular WDM admission.

Rasmussen said the show allows the WDM to not only get regular museum attendees out to the WDM but also allows the museum to attract non-traditional museum attendees to the WDM.

The show runs regular WDM hours which are 9 am to 5 pm both Saturday and Sunday

Additionally exhibitors will not be packing up until after the show ends at 5 pm. So if you come on Sunday afternoon you will have the opportunity to visit all exhibitors until closing.

There will be a cash only concession available.

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