Tag: iowa interstate railroad

Slinging Rock

by James McNab, posted in Construction

"I loaded sixteen tons of number 9 coal and the straw boss said, 'Well-a bless my soul!'" -Tennessee Ernie Ford I understand why most model railroaders dislike ballasting track. It's a tedious, repetitive process that takes patience and concentration; two traits that I have in short supply. However, much like benchwork and wiring, its a necessary … Continue reading Slinging Rock

With Apologies to Joyce Kilmer

by James McNab, posted in Construction

"I think that I shall never see A poem lovely as a tree." Progress continues on the signature scene of The Hills Line, the Iowa Interstate's deck-girder bridge and surrounding area in Iowa City. With the base scenery in place it's time to add the flora. As previously mentioned, my scenic methods are not groundbreaking … Continue reading With Apologies to Joyce Kilmer

Bridge Over Troubled Water

by James McNab, posted in Construction

Time to get to work on the signature scene of The Hills Line, the Iowa Interstate's deck-girder bridge over the Iowa River. The first detail needed are the cutwater retaining walls that wrap around each of the bridge piers. I searched for a suitable commercial product, but all were too bulky to simulate the prototype. … Continue reading Bridge Over Troubled Water