The Durand Union Station isn’t the only place in town that’s seen railroad activity for many decades. Model train collectors, buyers, and curious onlookers will soon make their way to the 34th Annual Durand Railroad Days Model Train Show during the 40th Annual Durand Railroad Days Festival. The show will take place from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 15 at Durand Middle School, 9550 E. Lansing Rd., in Durand. Admission is $5 for adults; children 10 and under are free. Concessions are provided by the Durand DeMolay youth group.
More than 50 vendor-collectors come every year from all over the Midwest. This year there will be more than 140 tables displaying model railroad goods and merchandise. “Where else in Michigan could you have the best mix of rail enthusiasts and collectors than at a model train show in the state’s railroad capital, Durand,” asks event coordinator Joe Rathbun. “The folks who come to this show with their collections are anxious to discuss model railroading and answer people’s questions.”
A wide variety of items can be found at the show, including many quality products with special pricing. Lionel, American Flyer, O-gauge, HO-gauge, S-gauge, N-gauge, track, rolling stock, DCC computerized controllers and decoders are available, as well as engines, buildings, modeling tools, and supplies. Organizers say there’s “everything and anything” to expand a layout, make it more realistic and enjoyable, or find that special car or engine with a particular road name. There’s also railroad memorabilia, how-to books, DVDs, and collectible T-shirts and sweatshirts for all ages with railroading scenes, insignias, and special designs.
Rathbun says vendor tables are still available for $20 each for people interested in bringing their collections and/or model train-related items for sale to the show. For more information, interested persons may call (989) 723-1398 or jrrathbun@gmail.com. There is a free depot shuttle between the train show and Railroad Days activities downtown. There is also plenty of free parking at the middle school.
