The Final Trainstock at NJ HiRailers – A Day of Laughter, Memories, and Model Railroading Excellence
By Michael S. Oher, TCA # 18-73531 Spring 2025 e*Train
When the NJ Hi-Railers announced that Trainstock 16 would be the final iteration of the event at their iconic Paterson location, it became a must-attend gathering for train enthusiasts across the region. Not only was this an opportunity to witness one of the most remarkable O-gauge layouts before it faced disassembly, but it was also a chance for the model railroading community to come together and celebrate decades of camaraderie and craftsmanship.
Leading the charge to this historic event were TCA National President Kevin Quinn, former TCA National President Stu Rankin, METCA President Andy Hibell, and, of course, yours truly, Michael Oher, Editor of e*Train.
The Road Trip That Nearly Went Off the Rails
The day began with the kind of chaos only seasoned travelers can appreciate. Stu Rankin and I rendezvoused at Andy Hibell’s house in the early morning hours. After some lighthearted debate about whether we’d need to stop for snacks, we loaded up Stu’s car and set off to pick up Kevin Quinn.
Kevin’s house was the next stop, and if you’ve ever tried to park in a suburban neighborhood with three train enthusiasts debating the merits of parallel parking versus double parking, you’d understand the minor fiasco that unfolded. With Kevin onboard, the car was now at full capacity, both in passengers and train-related banter.
Arrival at Trainstock 16
After a drive filled with laughter and questionable GPS guidance, we finally arrived at the NJ Hi-Railers’ Paterson headquarters. The parking lot was already bustling with visitors, many of whom greeted us like old friends. It was clear this wasn’t just an event—it was a family reunion.
Walking into the layout room was like stepping into a dream. The NJ Hi-Railers’ layout is nothing short of a masterpiece. Spanning thousands of square feet, it’s a miniature world filled with intricate details: bustling cityscapes, serene countryside, and even a working amusement park. For years, this layout had been a labor of love for its creators, and today, it was on full display for one final hurrah.
Showcasing the Legacy of NJ Hi-Railers
The NJ Hi-Railers have long been celebrated for their dedication to the hobby and their ability to inspire countless visitors with their craftsmanship. Their sprawling O-gauge layout, housed in a former warehouse in Paterson, New Jersey, is a marvel of engineering and artistry. Spanning the entirety of the second story of its building, the layout features intricate cityscapes complete with towering skyscrapers, bustling streets filled with model vehicles, and even tiny figures engaged in everyday activities. One particularly striking scene captures a meticulously detailed New York City skyline, complete with a lifelike replica of the World Trade Center.
Transitioning from urban life to rural charm, the layout seamlessly incorporates serene countryside scenes. A shimmering river winds through the landscape, with bridges carrying trains across the water. Among the most talked-about features is a fully operational amusement park, reminiscent of Coney Island, NY, complete with a rotating Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a model of the world-famous Cyclone roller coaster that’s delighted visitors of all ages for almost 100 years. A bustling train yard features engines being serviced in a roundhouse, with a freight yard of epic proportions nearby.
The group’s history is as impressive as its layout. Founded in the early 2000s, the NJ Hi-Railers began as a small group of enthusiasts with a shared passion for model trains. Over the years, they transformed their hobby into a community hub, hosting countless events, workshops, and open houses. Their annual celebration, Trainstock, became a highlight for train lovers across the region. Each event was a feast for the senses, blending the visual spectacle of the layout with the warm camaraderie of the railroading community.
Trainstock 16 was a bittersweet milestone, marking the second to final public showing of this extraordinary layout before the group’s relocation. The event was filled with heartfelt moments, as visitors marveled at the craftsmanship and shared their favorite memories. The NJ Hi-Railers’ commitment to preserving the magic of model railroading was evident in every detail, from the lovingly maintained tracks to the animated vignettes that brought the miniature world to life. It’s no wonder that their layout has been featured in numerous publications and on television, earning them a place in the hearts of train enthusiasts worldwide.
While the Paterson location may be closing its doors, the legacy of the NJ Hi-Railers will undoubtedly continue. Their dedication to the hobby and their ability to bring people together through a shared love of trains ensures that their impact will be felt for generations to come.
A Bittersweet Farewell
As the day wound down, there was a palpable sense of nostalgia in the air. Visitors lingered by the layout, taking photos and sharing stories. Many found themselves reminiscing about past Trainstocks and the memories created within these walls.
Before we left, the four of us gathered for a final walk around the layout. Kevin pointed out a particularly detailed scene featuring a miniature train repair shop. “That’s what this place is all about,” he said. “The details, the passion, the people who make it all happen.”
The Journey Home
The drive back was a quieter affair, though not without its moments of humor. After Trainstock, we made a minor detour to a famous hot dog restaurant. After that, as we pulled into our respective driveways, it was clear that Trainstock 16 had been more than just an event. It was a celebration of everything that makes the model railroading community special. And while it marked the end of an era for the NJ Hi-Railers’ Paterson location, it also reinforced the enduring spirit of the hobby we all love.
To the NJ Hi-Railers, thank you for the memories. To Trainstock 16, thank you for the laughter. And to the open road, thank you for getting us there—even if it was… via the scenic route.
