A Model Railroad Masterpiece: Richard Golding's Carlyle\, Illinois Creation The world of model railroading is filled with passionate hobbyists\, but few achieve the level of detail and artistry that Richard Golding brought to his creation – the Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad. This sprawling\, meticulously crafted miniature world has captivated enthusiasts for decades\, serving as a testament to Golding's dedication and skill. A Life-Long Passion Richard Golding's love for model trains began in childhood\, sparking a fascination that would grow into a life-long pursuit. Born in 1938\, he first encountered the captivating world of model trains in the 1940s\, a time when toy trains were a staple of childhood. As he grew older\, his interest blossomed into a serious hobby\, one that would ultimately consume his life. The Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad: A Vision Brought to Life In the 1970s\, Golding realized his dream of building a large-scale\, detailed model railroad. He chose to create a miniature representation of the Illinois Terminal Railroad (IT)\, a regional line operating in the midwestern United States. The Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad\, as it came to be known\, was not merely a collection of tracks and trains; it was a meticulously crafted miniature world\, complete with towns\, industries\, and landscapes. Unparalleled Detail and Realism Golding's attention to detail was unparalleled. He painstakingly researched the IT\, poring over historical documents\, photographs\, and maps to ensure accuracy in his miniature world. The result was a model railroad that exceeded all expectations. Scale: Golding's model railroad operates in "HO scale\," meaning that every inch in the model represents 87 inches in the real world. Landscapes: From rolling hills to tranquil rivers\, Golding meticulously crafted every element of the landscape\, employing a variety of materials to achieve the desired realism. Buildings: Each structure in the model railroad is meticulously built\, reflecting the architectural styles and businesses of the era. Rolling Stock: The model railroad features a diverse collection of locomotives and rolling stock\, accurately reflecting the IT's history and operations. A Showcase of Railway History The Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad is not only a testament to Golding's artistic talent but also a historical archive. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of the Illinois Terminal Railroad\, learning about its history\, its operations\, and the impact it had on the region. The Illinois Terminal Railroad: Golding's model railroad captures the essence of the IT\, showcasing its unique locomotives\, passenger cars\, and freight cars. A Glimpse into the Past: The model railroad provides a window into a bygone era\, offering a glimpse into the everyday lives of those who lived and worked along the IT line. A Legacy of Knowledge: Through his meticulous research and artistry\, Golding created a valuable resource for railway enthusiasts and historians alike. Beyond the Rails The Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad is not only a model railroad; it's a community gathering place. Golding welcomed visitors\, sharing his passion and knowledge with anyone who wished to learn more about his creation. He organized open houses\, model train shows\, and educational events\, inspiring generations of model railroad enthusiasts. A Legacy that Lives On Richard Golding passed away in 2017\, but his legacy continues to live on through the Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad. The model railroad is now part of the Carlyle\, Illinois Historical Society\, ensuring its preservation and accessibility for future generations. Visiting the Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad The Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad is open to the public\, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience a world of miniature wonder. Location: The model railroad is located in Carlyle\, Illinois\, at the Carlyle Historical Society Museum. Hours: The model railroad is open to the public during museum hours. Check the Carlyle Historical Society website for details. Admission: Admission to the Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad is free\, though donations are always welcome. FAQ Q: What is the scale of the Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad? A: The Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad operates in HO scale\, where 1 inch on the model represents 87 inches in the real world. Q: What is the history of the Illinois Terminal Railroad? A: The Illinois Terminal Railroad was a regional railroad that operated in the midwestern United States. It was known for its diverse operations\, including passenger\, freight\, and commuter services. Q: How can I visit the Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad? A: The model railroad is located in Carlyle\, Illinois\, at the Carlyle Historical Society Museum. It is open to the public during museum hours. Q: Is there an admission fee for the Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad? A: Admission to the Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad is free\, though donations are always welcome. Conclusion The Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad is a testament to the dedication\, artistry\, and passion of Richard Golding. His miniature world stands as a lasting tribute to his love for trains\, his commitment to accuracy\, and his desire to share his passion with the world. Visiting the Carlyle\, Illinois Model Railroad is not only a journey into a miniature world but also a journey through time\, exploring the history and legacy of the Illinois Terminal Railroad.