I’ve attended numerous shows during my tenure at Kalmbach, from the local Trainfest show to garden railway conventions, but had never made it to the TCA Eastern Division York show. Finally, I attended my first one April 17-20. It was a whirlwind of activities, meeting contributors and vendors, and getting ideas for stories and layout features.
What did I learn? A lot, and I’m going to share some of it here. I’d love to hear comments from anyone whose been there. Please leave a comment or email editor@kalmbach.com
The Orange Hall can’t contain it all
When I walked into the Orange Hall, I thought it was about the same size at Milwaukee’s Trainfest show. I’d checked the TCA website and viewed the maps for the Orange and Purple Halls before I got on the plane. I was surprised to find there were several more halls with people selling items—the Blue, Silver, Black, and Red Halls. As Roger Carp and I walked the Silver Hall, I commented that the quantity of trains was “endless.” Your mind quickly goes into overload! If you want to take the time to enjoy it all, you need a second day.
Some surprising events
I’d talked to Scott Griggs, owner of Trainz.com the day before the show started. He had purchased some of YouTuber (and CTT cover model) Chris Raines’ collection and Chris had made a video to promote the sale of these items. I walked over to his booth and watch the frenzy begin. Within minutes, Trainz booth was full. Later that afternoon, Trainz coordinated a meeting of three-rail YouTube folks, and Scott kindly shared the photo. There was a lot of buzz about Chris and the YouTubers.
Mr. Muffin’s booth hosted a Korber kit event, which was very popular and enjoyed by folks of all ages. Kudos to both of you for trying some “out-of-the-box” things at this show. Both seemed to be wins.
Know your prices
As I walked the various halls, I noticed the prices of certain pieces that caught my eye. Prices varied widely. One item I had my eye on (the Lionel prewar Chickmobile) varied from $300-800. If you’re looking to buy anything, research your price first! Carry a Lionel Pocket Price Guide along with you. (I don’t say that just to sell a copy. It could save you a lot of money.) If the price seems too high, offer a lower price and see what happens. I saw many signs at booths that noted prices were negotiable.
Visit some other sites
The day before the show, Roger drove me to two locations in Strasburg, the Choo Choo Barn and the TCA National Toy Train Museum. Both places are worth your time. The new owners of the Choo Choo Barn are upgrading and renovating their layout, plus there’s a hobby shop next door. The TCA Museum has a great collection of toy trains, multiple layouts, and many items for purchase. I wish we’d had time to stop by the Strasburg Rail Road and Museum, just up the road from the other two places. I’d love to get a ride behind a steam locomotive.
Have a specialty interest?
We were invited to numerous events/meetings during the show, from a Flyer show-and-tell to a Lionel paper memorabilia event. Ask around and check the TCA website to see if there’s something that might be of interest to you.
Get to know the LCCA
Roger and I had dinner with three of the Lionel Collectors Club of America (LCCA) officers. They’re a friendly, welcoming bunch of folks. We are partnering with them to co-host a track planning contest. For the price of membership, you get two magazines, chances to buy club special cars, and so much more. Looking for a unique gift for a kid? They offer junior memberships too! Check out their website to learn more.
Warmly welcomed
While I’ve been working at Kalmbach for many years, I’ve been editor for less than a year. I was warmly greeted and welcomed by so many folks who had seen my photo in the magazine. If you read other magazines, do you even know who the editor is? CTT readers pay attention to who the staff is. I truly appreciate that.
Great coverage Renee!