If you’ve been in the hobby long enough and attended a few train shows, I’m sure you’ve come across various modeling groups, railroad historical societies, and even the biggest organization of them all in our corner of the world, the National Model Railroad Association. For years, I saw these tables at train shows and didn’t give much thought about looking into what they do. But one day, I decided to try and understand why someone would join. I’m glad I did.
Let’s begin with historical societies. We all have a favorite railway interest and if we’re modeling that line we sometimes might need to do some in-depth research as part of a modeling project. This is where the historical societies come in. Railway historical societies are a great way to learn more about that favorite line and how to better model it. Railway historical society membership is also a good way to meet other like-minded modelers, railfans and historians who are all interested in the same topics as you. I have been involved with the Central Vermont Railway Historical Society for a long time and have met many like-minded modelers. Some of them have even become life-long friends.
One of the best ways to get the most out of society membership is to contribute, something that can be done by a newbie or a veteran member of the group. Every contribution, no matter how small, is a positive addition to the success of the entire group. I am currently the modeling editor for the CVRHS print publication, The Ambassador. Since becoming the modeling editor, I have had the task of recruiting both members and non-members (who will hopefully then become members) to contribute to the modeling portion of the magazine. I have found that members do want to contribute if asked, especially if it is a topic of interest.

—George Dutka photo
Most railway historical societies offer their members quarterly magazines, yearly conventions, and sometimes new book and model releases. All these offerings are a nice bonus for one to join. A few times a year, you’ll find a directory of railroad historical societies at the end of this magazine. Browse the listings and you might find that there’s a group perfect for you.
Why join the NMRA? I was always skeptical about joining the national group but took up an offer to attend a couple of local NMRA meets hosted in my area. I had a good time learning some new techniques and even came home with a partially built model. After that, I joined my local division and today I’m the program director for it.
If you are a modeler who likes traveling, the NMRA might be a good fit for you. Each region usually holds its own convention once a year that includes many clinics, layout tours, and more. There’s also a national convention in conjunction with a large train show hosted in a different city each summer, which can also be a nice excuse to travel. Not only will you visit great layouts and take part in informative clinics, you’ll meet up with old friends and make new ones, too.
NMRA membership offers you access to their website, 12 issues of NMRA Magazine, and of course all the clinic presentations you can handle. Most regions publish a quarterly journal that are chock-full of modeling tips and local information. But again, the biggest benefit of all to joining the NMRA or any of the historical societies is that you’ll find a community of like-minded people who are passionate about model railroading and/or prototype railroading.
Don’t forget your local model railroad club. There are many great clubs from coast to coast, each having something different to offer. Some clubs operate large permanent layouts, while others focus on modular railroads that can be set up in a variety of locations (and often link up with similar groups). Clubs can be a great way to meet new people and sharpen your skills!
This might sound like I get a commission for signing up new members, but I don’t. Just take my advice and stop by one of the historical society booths or the NMRA booth the next time you’re at a train show to see what they’re all about. Visit a club during their next open house. You might be surprised how much it can improve the enjoyment of your hobby. —George Dutka