The Superior Express -

The Thayer County Event Center, Deshler, was the site of the Spring Creek Model Trains Free-mo event Saturday and Sunday.

Free-mo refers to a standand for model railroad builders to utilize. It allows the builder the flexibility to model prototype layouts without a restriction on length or strict adherence to a set form of track plan such as a continuous loop. The standard calls for a single track mainline using code 83 rail. The Free-mo mainline is centered on a two foot end. Modules can be inverted 180 degrees and still match up with the adjacent module without modification to the wiring or track. The wiring is connected with standardized color coded plugs.

The standard allows for the individual to determine the length and track configuration up to the modeler.

This method allows modelers to create a prototype with few limitations.

The Deshler event was open to the public. Admission was free. The concession stand was a fund raising opportunity for the Deshler Lutheran School.

The event was well attended with more than 200 people attending the event. The show also attracted many people to the Spring Creek Model trains store located in downtown Deshler.

The layout at the event center featured more than 55 HO gauge modules of varying lengths and representing real and fictional railroads. There were more than 20 HOng (narrow gauge) modules, including some with turntables.

Modelers from Minnesota, Oklahoma, kansas, Nebraska and the St. Louis area of Missouri brought their modules to the event.

Tableaus on the modules depicted scenes from every stage of American railroading, from steam to diesel, prairie to mountains and waterside.

The store will be hosting their biennial train show July 8 and 9 at the store as well as other Deshler locations.