The GNRR crew discusses their options after reaching the end of the line.
Eventually we all reach the end of the line. In my case, this blog will be my last for my current website as I will not be renewing my Wix web hosting contract. As of October 12, 2024 access to my website through the www.ThomasKlimoski.com URL will not be active, although you might still be able to access the content through HTTPS://TKlimoski.wixsite.com/ThomasKlimoski As it has been said, “All good things must come to an end”.
The website was an easy way for me to post about my layout progress, have links to my videos, discuss topics, and highlight other model railroader’s layouts. Seven years ago when I began my website I never knew how much it would grow, and if anyone would even care to check it out. I was pleasantly surprised how well it was received, and how many fellow model railroaders that reached out to me for numerous reasons through my website. For me, enjoying the hobby with others is one of the best parts of model railroading, and my website has certainly accomplished that goal. I have made long lasting friendships that were only possible by meeting others through the website, and for that I am very thankful.
So the next logical question is, what are you going to do with your layout? Don’t worry the Georgia Northeastern Railroad (GNRR) layout will still be around for a couple more years. With the layout basically finished I plan to host regular operating sessions and enjoy it for a while longer, but I have been planning my next layout to replace the GNRR. If you are interesting in operating on my layout please contact me, I'll be glad to host an ops session for you.
The new layout will be based on a paper mill in Alabama that was a joint operation between the Southern and Seaboard Coast Line (SCL) in the early 1980s. If you have a copy of my book, I had two track plans for the facility and the Coosa Pines industrial area, and several prototype photos provided by my friend Tom Holley. I developed a new track plan that basically replaces the current GNRR layout and eliminates the peninsula. Yes, I am taking my own advice of “less is more”. The layout will be solely based on switching the paper mill and all the associated operations that required a full time prototype crew to provide service to the facility. One of the interesting features of modeling this specific paper mill facility is that each railroad provided a four axle locomotive and crews to operate the line. This allows me to run locomotives in the sharp SCL black and yellow, and Southern “tuxedo” paint schemes.
Well, that is about all from here. I am not going anywhere, but just scaling back on my social media presence. Currently I don’t post on Facebook, but maybe in the future I’ll start a Facebook Group page on the new layout, so stay tuned. I want to thank everyone that has commented on my blog posts and took the time to check out what I have been posting.
Until next time, stay safe and keep model railroading.
Hello Tom, sorry to hear of the "end of the line" so to speak. Unfortunantly, I'm a late bloomer to your website and current layout. Going to miss it. But, I fully understand that if a modeler has the finance, and has new layout concepts, ect., and can begin the pursuit of a new adventure, all power to you my friend! Myself, and my current and final third layout build of the Company West and Katy Industrail Branchline, will be my end of the line untill the good Lord takes me to the other side one day. I plan to get every drop of joy out of this one too. I'm turning 56 on the 23rd of Sept., this month…
Thanks for sharing your knowledge and layout!
Dear Tom I am sorry to know that you will not publish your articles more, I really enjoyed them a lot and I learned a lot of things. I would love to be able to go someday to operate your layout, unfortunately I'm not around but I don't lose hope. Take good care of yourself and good luck in your new project. Thank you for everything you have taught me, I would like to keep in touch.
Te mando un gran abrazo
Tom thanks for taking the time to share your model railroading adventures with us it's always fun to see and read your blog post it will be missed.
Looking forward to seeing what's next in Toms modeling world.
Thanks again
Scott Lister
Hi Tom: It sounds like you have a good vision for your next layout revision. The paper mill served by the SCL and Southern is a great choice. I look forward to following the future changes you make. Thank you for all the great posts you’ve made on your blog. You’re a inspiration to many in the model railroading world. All the best to you in your upcoming ventures!