By museum, I am refering more to the quality of presentation. Already, FWRHS has many wonderful displays, but future plans would literally take visitors back to a historic time period. The quality of the entire plan promotes not just preservation but also information, learning, and enjoyment. Whatsmore, this proposal will surely generate new interest both publicly and with memberships. Fort Wayne/New Haven, IN, would have a new attraction that they would surely be proud of.

So, what are the specifics? What's all the hub-bub? See for yourself.

TrainTown Project. Click it! Martin Riley Mock

Working with the firm of Martin Riley Mock, located in the fabulously restored Baker Street Pennsylvania Railroad station, the TrainTown Project consists of constructing a crossing guard tower and a replica of the Nickel Plate Road's downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana, depot. As can be seen here, this is a topnotch concept. The building will serve as a loading platform for the popular caboose trips and add excitement for those that participate in the "Engineer for an Hour" program.

But that's not all! In addition, plans have been made to expand the available trackage and construction of a display building.

TrainTown Site Development Plan Click it! Martin Riley Mock

To the left is the proposed site development plan. Here, one can see the location of the original shop, the proposed depot, watchman's tower, and the display building, as well as all the new track to be laid. You can now see how this would interest the general public and reinvigerate the membership drive. And imagine navigating that maze of trackwork as engineer of the 44-ton diesel or, also in the future, 0-6-0 steam locomotive #1.

If you've taken the time to click the links and review the larger images, you will notice that this is far from simple discussion. The initial commitment was made when they contracted the services of Martin Riley Mock. Conceivably, the overall costs would be rather large. I cannot report, at this time, if this is a phased project or what those phases may or may not be. This project is still in the early stages of development but it is evident that this is a first-rate endevour.

It seems that a lot of controversy has arisen due to several steam operations employing new tactics to guarantee income. On the downside, it appears that many loyal fans are becoming disenfranchised. Clearly, the operators need to support their operations which are becoming bombarded with sky-rocketing costs. But at what cost?

Reports are that more than a few operations have begun to include policies that essentially require a ticket purchase for an opportunity to photograph the locomotive. It sounds as though locomotives are "hidden" or disguised to discourage random photos by non-paying patrons. Photo run-bys are then staged for those with a ticket to ride. Certainly every organization has the right to protect its "bread-and-butter", but some fans are crying foul.

Anyone who has taken a ride behind a steam locomotive has undoubtedly seen the lines of track side spectators. Often, or so the argument begins, those people do not offer any financial support to the operators but sometimes go on to benefit from the images they have aquired. Fans claim that they do support the organizations by purchasing merchandise and promoting the operation through their photographs and video recordings. Yet, operators contend that most merchandise sales are from vendors not affiliated with the operating organization, thus the operators see no income from the sale.

Clearly, operation and upkeep is extremely expensive. No one disputes the fact that aquiring funds is not easy for anyone. However, fans believe they are being black-balled from their interests. Some even seem to perceive these new actions to be akin to Class 1 railroads and their protective measures and restrictions. Whatever the argument, both sides have valid comments on the subject.

"Hiding" the engine might also hide it from the public eye. The public at large is where efforts should be focused. Those that don't realize they have such a treasure in their own backyard should be made aware. Efforts should be made to grow the base rather than send a majority home with feelings of disgust. Naturally, the free market system will sort this out. Either the measures will work, or we'll have yet another locomotive retired for good. Of course, policies could also change.

I find it difficult to imagine the divisions now and the comminality of action during the beginning stages of these organizations. It used to be that everyone was "on the same team." Nowadays, everyone wants their opinion heard, followed, and made law. It really doesn't matter if it is this controversy or another about a paint scheme, lettering, era representation, or headlight placement. Not everyone can be pleased. The operators must look out for their interest. Frankly, if this is the path they choose, then fine. As I said before, the market will sort it out. For those that are opposed to this, do something about it.

I don't mean to infer that a rail paparazzi be formed. I mean get involved. Participate in the organization, become an officer, and influence organizational policy. Those willing to participate are the one's with the real interest. Those that don't, well, they just like to complain. Sorry, but that's how I see it. I may or may not agree with what is being done, but I understand that complaining won't fix what ails ya'. So, hop to it. Get involved!