About the High Wheeler Train Show

The 34th Annual High Wheeler Train Show

The High Wheeler Train Show is sponsored by the Fox Valley Division of the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA). Our charter is "To promote, the art and craft of model railroading and preserve its history, science, and technology." High Wheeler is one vehicle we use to acquaint the public with the many sizes, shapes and aspects of the hobby. We not only work within our own association, but with scouts, schools or other interested groups to spread the word, teach techniques and develop the awareness. Whether your involvement is in modeling, operating, enjoying trains or watching the smile on an engaged child's face, it is an interest that is truly "Fun for all ages!"

The railroads were the backbone of the economic development of this country. Model railroading is a way to capture slices of our history -- whether it be past or present day -- and preserve those favorite memories. Our aim is raise the level of awareness to possibilities that exist on how to do just that and engage the creativity that resides in all of us. Your visit to High Wheeler is not just a day's entertainment, but a place to garner the know how, experiences, tools, tips, ideas and fellowship to get your own trains rolling. Have fun being your railroad's president, engineer, designer, dispatcher, conductor, brakeman -- or whatever role you desire -- and then enjoy the great satisfaction of doing it because you made it happen.

What is the NMRA anyway? It's a national association of model railroad hobbyists that connects fellow modelers of all ages and backgrounds willing to share the many aspects of the hobby. The NMRA also establishes and maintains recommended practices and dimensional standards for the various scales allowing for interoperability of equipment from different manufacturers adopting those standards.

The organization is divided into regions and local divisions that facilitate networking of the membership in planned activities such as meetings, local, regional & national conventions, informative expert clinics, excursions and social activities. Your knowledge and enjoyment of the hobby will directly benefit from the association's activities.

NMRA services beyond local events include: a monthly subscription to NMRA Magazine, a 1st class, 4 color magazine with updates on what's happening in the hobby and articles of interest. Access to manufacturing and operational standards, data sheets, periodical indexes, the Kalmbach Memorial Library and member question services are also included with your membership.

The Fox Valley Division is a not-for-profit organization & one of many divisions of the NMRA. Regular meetings are generally held on the 3rd Sunday of the month from September through May, 1:30 pm thru 4:30 pm, at the Gary Morava Recreation Center, 110 W. Camp McDonald Road, Prospect Heights, IL 60070. Activities include division business, discussion clinics, hobby contests, prizes, refreshments & occasional excursions. The meetings are free and guests are welcome. All train show proceeds are used to support the Fox Valley Division & the hobby-related, community activities in which we are involved.

For more information on joining, stop by the NMRA table at this show, or check out the NMRA website at http://www.nmra.org/ For information about local hobby activities in this area see the Fox Valley Division website at: http://www.foxvalleydivision.org/ In the mean time... Enjoy the Show!