Wanamaker, Kempton and Southern

While I was in eastern Pennsylvania to watch raptors at Hawk Mountain, I must have been attracted to the commotion caused by this steam engine. The WK&S is a little tourist line operating a section of the former Reading Company line. Number two pictured is an H. K. Porter 0-4-0 locomotive built in 1920.

Taking a break from trains in our home, I thought it might be nice to step out for a bit and see what other trainspotting opportunities are around town. Come on along with us on a track trek!

We are fortunate to have several hot spots in our region that have trains of different types. This includes a real authentic railroad, a hobbyist toy train retailer, and a very nice model train display that is put on at the local Historical Society. 

First off, the WK&S Railroad, is an authentic and operational railroad that is located in Kempton, PA. The "Wannamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad" has often been the destination of fun weekend train rides with the family, and even featured once in wedding day celebrations of our friends. The railroad is operated by volunteer enthusiasts who truly do recreate a great train experience. It's definitely worth a visit, especially in the fall, when the air is crisp and the autumn colors surround you on the track. Please make sure you visit them here.

It should also be noted that on site at the WK&S, is a coach that houses a model train display put on by the Schuylkill and Lehigh Model Railroad Club. It features a recreation of a local section of track from the nearby Reading Railroad. Lots of pictures may be found at their website, located here.

Next, on our adventure is a stop at Renninger's Antiques & Farmer's Market in Kutztown, PA, to see Henry P. Hall, Jr, the "Train Master" at Treetop Antiques. Henry has been an active model train enthusiast for several decades and a visit to his stand has been a weekly tradition whenever we visit. The antique section of Renninger's is only open Saturdays 8AM - 4PM, so plan your weekend to include a visit - we usually do!

One of our favorite traditions, however, is to visit the Model Train Display at the Kutztown Area Historical Society. This is a train display that is proudly presented free to the public each winter holiday season by a crew of local train enthusiasts affiliated with the KAHS and headed by Jim Schlegel. We have been going since the children were born, and Mr. Schlegel often refers to Oliver as one of his "best customers." Check out this awesome layout:

Alas, the train display is over for now, but it will be warmly welcomed back this year after Thansgiving to entertain and delight all who are fortunate to visit to this sweet town of trains. In the meantime, here's a nice shot of Mr. Schlegel overlooking the track, watching as Oliver operates the Downtown Trolley.