In this visit to the Gogebic Iron Range, layout builder Hans Schlegel hosts an exclusive video tour of his HO scale (1:87) model railroad highlighting Chicago & North Western (C&NW) and Soo Line railroad operations under steam and diesel-power during the mid-1950s and early-1960s. Travel with Hans, as he takes you to faithfully modeled Michigan and Wisconsin locations on his 23 x 27-foot layout. Highlights include intricate railway bridges and buildings, forest scenery, mainstreet boulevards, and scores of structures associated with the iron ore hauling industry.
Along the main line, featuring a 1.35-percent grade, you’ll also see equally intriguing models of C&NW and Soo Line diesel freight power, including Geep and Alco units. But steam power from a fading era is also present and working hard on the layout.
Operating sessions are a part of Hans Schlegel’s enjoyment of the hobby. He hosts round-robin group sessions, were 12 trains run in about 3½ hours, using RailOP car routing and radio NCE ProCabs.
When you’re finished watching all of this layout action and scenery unfold, you’ll certainly find numerous other C&NWand Soo Line model railroads featured in the Trains.com streaming video collection.
Want to know even more about the HO scale Gogebic Iron Range? Pick up a copy the special-issue publication, Model Railroading: The Ultimate Guide 2022, available from the kalmbachhobbystore.com!
An amazing piece of operating art, depicting operations in an iron ore range that has faded into history. Well done, Hans.