HO layout at Milwaukee Museum: Discovery World CEO Bryan Wunar speaks to Trains.com staff about Discovery World’s new HO scale model train layout. Discovery World in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is known for their emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and exhibits. Regarding this exhibit, Wunar says, “Trains and railways embody technological advancements from around the globe. From smart sensors and automated inspection equipment to computer programs that maximize fuel use, trains continue to carry us into the future.” This is something that connects with all generations.
However, the All Aboard exhibit is more than just another way of teaching visitors about STEM education, or even about the history of trains. According to Walthers, it’s also about highlighting the hobby of model railroading and showing us the “hands-on ingenuity embodied by model railroaders” as they develop miniature worlds for us to explore.
Walthers Cornerstone kits were used to create several of the buildings on this layout, while others were kitbashed. You can see the Everett Street Depot at the heart of this layout, as well as the Pabst Brewery, Usinger’s Factory, Walton & Sons Lumber Co., the Ambrosia Chocolate Co., Medusa Cement Co., and so much more. This layout is not prototypical. However, it is loosely Milwaukee-themed.
Discovery World is a non-profit science and technology center located in downtown Milwaukee. The All Aboard train exhibit is currently running two trains (one per loop) eight hours a day, five days a week. For model railroaders interested in volunteering with the exhibit, please visit their website. Exhibit supported in partnership by Walthers. Walthers has provided and will continue to provide the ongoing support needed to keep this model railroad operational for years to come.
Many people were involved in the execution of this exhibit: Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design students were involved in the setup of this exhibit by assisting with the graphics on the wall behind the layout, the modeler himself, Stephan Lamb Associates, helped to tear down and then reassemble the layout at Discovery World. And all of this would not even be possible if it wasn’t for the generous donation of the layout itself from the Richard Grigg family.
This is an absolutely great new thing in Milwaukee! I live between Milwaukee and Chicago, and really enjoy the Lake Michigan lakefront in Milwaukee. From Discovery World, you can go a bit south to Summerfest, a bit west to the Historic 3rd Ward, a bit north to the art museum and Veteran’s Park (best kite flying in the midwest). Consider a multi day trip here in the summer while Summerfest is on!!
An excellent model railroad display and worthy of the hobby. A nice way for young people to observe and perhaps become interested in the hobby.