The V&O railroad reality...

[r.cprmier]

As I read this latest issue of MR, I found the article on the V&O, Allen McClennan's layout, and had to chuckle to myself becausae I was one of those people who weren't quite sure if it was a real railroad or a layout, and it took a glance at the coupler "hose" to ascertain that it was indeed a layout-one of the finest layouts I have ever seen.

Kudos and a real "PIP PIP" to Al and his wonderful work.  See you at the prototype meet in Canton, Ct today.

THe Old Reprobate

[rogertra]

The V&O set the standard for operations oriented model railroads.

Sadly, even the second V&O is now more and is almost completely dismantled.  The house has been sold and it seems that there will be no more V&Os due to ill health. 

[SteamGene]

That is a shame.  I've always found it interesting that two men, building two railroads which interchanged with each other went in opposite directions temporally. 
Gene

[r.cprmier]

I've always found it interesting that two men, building two railroads which interchanged with each other went in opposite directions temporally.

Gene;
What do you mean?

Rich

[SteamGene]

The V&O went from steam to end of transition to at least second generation.  The AM went from - I think - second generation to transition with plenty of steam. 
Gene

[Paul M.]

Gene-
I know Tony Koester did that ( 2nd generation to early transition ) in planning his Nickel Plate layout.... I wasn't aware he did that with the Allegheny Midland.

[SteamGene]

Paul, he sure did.  And to make things interesting he used NKP lettering and caboose markings yet many of the locomotives and structures were C&O. 
Gene