I decided a while back that I would like to build a module that I could take to shows or wherever in order to help promote the hobby.  I also thought it would be great way to possibly meet a group of like minded individuals that I could share skills and ideas with.

     At times I felt that model railroading is like a secret society.  We can drive down many a street and would never know that there are some terrific layouts hidden nicely in peoples basements, spare rooms or attics.  

     I thought that if I am going to build a nice layout, that I should be able to share it and show it off to others who may be interested.  Management wasn't keen on the idea of a large sign on the front lawn letting people know of the creation in my basement, thus the idea of the module came to light.

     I thought that I could create an extension of the main layout, basically another area along the Algonquin pines route that I could not fit into the layout room.  This also allowed me to achieve what we all desire as model railroaders, more real estate.  I could then take this extension to shows etc., to show off my work and give everyone a taste of what the Algonquin Pines layout looked like.  At that point if anyone wished to come for a viewing I could set that up.

     I met Jack Breddy through the local model railroad group who also shared some interest in building modules and possibly creating a module group in our area.  We tried on a few occasions to spark interest but to no avail.  We did construct 4  4'x 2' modules and were able to have two ready to go for a local museum's train day.  We received a lot of positive comments and were asked to return this coming year.  We were also asked if there would be interest in showing of the modules to other groups or at other events, exactly what I was looking to achieve. Below are photos of the first attempt at building modules.

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     Over the winter we discussed forming a group again, still no interest in creating a modular group.  We did however have some interest in helping us out with setups or building a building.  Even a wall contribution is better than nothing, at times its baby steps in order to get thing moving.

     We figured our best option was to create a display layout.  This would allow for future expansion if we ever got to that point, but would also be better in showing off more details such as scenery work and structures.

     I had seen a number of display layouts from Australia Narrow Gauge convention you-tube videos, as well there was a series called the Olympia project on Model railroader magazine video series.  We thought this would be a good approach as we can stick with the logging backwoods theme and tie it into the Algonquin Pines layout.

     The display layout size would be 2 - 5'long x 2' wide x 3'high display sections, these would fit nicely in the back of my truck for transport.  We also have a 4' sector table in order to do some switching of locomotives and rolling stock, this portion would be hidden on one side of the display.  

With all this in mind we began the adventure of constructing the display layout.