Detroit Railroading & Industries | Prototype Reference Photography | Episode One

Detroit Railroading & Industries | Prototype Reference Photography | Episode One | October 2022
Locations, industries, and structures that have info,med the modeling and operations of my of the my Detroit. Michigan based HO scale layout.
The Detroit Terminal Railroad is the home of two HO scale model railroads serving Detroit, Michigan circa 1997-2007. The first is the based on "Conrail's "Detroit Shared Assets Area" (Operations) also referred to as the "Detroit Joint Terminal Zone", and the second is based on the Grand Trunk Western's (GTW/CN) Shore Line Subdivision and Mt. Clemens Subdivision operations.
Scale: HO (1:87)
Prototype: Conrail
Locale: Eastside of Detroit Michigan
Era: circa 1997
Layout style: Shelf layout
Layout height: 59.5"
Track: code 83
Minimum curve radii: 30"
Backdrop: photo backdrop
Control: DCC

[@garymartz7587]

Looks like an urban wasteland. Challenging modeling subject but very unique!!

[@detroitterminalrailroad1467]

Thanks again for the feedback.

[@maybesomeday2596]

Interesting. I’m from the west side of metro Detroit and after 25 years as an industrial equipment sales rep, beginning in 1983, I’ve seen dozens of these small tool shops wither and die. It’s depressing to ponder that each had dozens of employees, making a living wage and contributing to Detroit’s, as well as the nation’s, prosperity. These proud old mid century modern (or “moderne”, if you like…some are likely pre-war) structures slowly succumb to the economic realities of today’s world…their bricked-over windows and dipped-in-paint facades a sad and vivid reminder of an American economy we’ll likely never see again. Pathetic, really…

[@detroitterminalrailroad1467]

Thanks, I appreciate your perspective and comments.