Summer 2026 TCA e*Train
Out on the Circuit
Summer always brings opportunities to get out on the rails, reconnect with friends, and introduce new people to the hobby we all enjoy. While this summer’s travel schedule looks a little different for me, I’m excited to be once again getting back out into the field.
As I mentioned in A Message from Your Editor, the past several months have presented a few unexpected challenges. Because of my recent surgery, I’ve decided to keep my train-related travel a bit lighter than I normally would as I continue to recover. While I may not be covering quite as many miles this summer, I remain just as committed to promoting the Train Collectors Association and the York Train Fair wherever I can.
The Journey Continues
Before my surgery, I had the opportunity to experience one of the most memorable railroad events in recent years as Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 traveled across northeastern Pennsylvania alongside Reading & Northern No. 2102. Beyond the incredible locomotives, what stood out most was the sense of community. Everywhere I stopped, I met fellow TCA members, railfans, and families who shared the same enthusiasm for preserving railroad history.
This is why outreach matters. Every conversation has the potential to introduce someone new to the TCA, rekindle a former member’s interest, or inspire the next generation of collectors.
Looking Ahead
Although I unfortunately had to miss this year’s TCA National Convention while recovering from surgery, I am looking forward to getting back on the road. One stop I fully intend to make is the Greenberg’s Great Train & Toy Show in Edison, New Jersey, this August, where I’ll once again be representing the Eastern Division at our promotional booth.
Whether someone has been attending York for decades or is simply curious about the hobby after walking into a train show for the first time, those face-to-face conversations are invaluable. They remind people that the TCA isn’t just about trains—it’s about the friendships and community that have kept this hobby thriving for generations.
Looking Toward York
Even as summer continues, preparations are already well underway for the York Train Fair this October. Behind the scenes, volunteers throughout the Eastern Division continue working to improve the experience for members, dealers, and visitors alike. Every show we attend, every conversation we have, and every new relationship we build helps strengthen not only York but the Train Collectors Association as a whole.
If our paths cross this summer—whether at Edison, trackside, or somewhere in between—please don’t hesitate to stop and say hello. I’d love to hear your story, talk trains, and learn what keeps you passionate about this incredible hobby.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Supporting train shows—large and small—is one of the best ways to support the hobby itself. Every admission ticket purchased, every conversation had, and every young person introduced to trains helps ensure that our hobby continues to thrive for generations to come.
As always, your ideas and feedback help guide e*Train. If you’d like to contribute or share a story, feel free to reach out at [email protected].
e*Train Articles
Rail Rod Jul 2026
That’s all for now, folks!
Thank you for riding with us on this Summer 2026 edition of TCA e*Train.
We hope you enjoyed the ride and found plenty of valuable information on the rails with us. We’ll return with more great content soon, so stay tuned and join us next time.
We’re glad to have you along as we continue building for the future.
Until next time—enjoy the shows, travel safely, and keep the trains running! Thanks for riding with us, and All Aboard!
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Ever Upward,
Michael S. Oher, TCA #18-73531
Editor, TCA e*Train
