2008 NMRA Convention - Anaheim. California logo
national train show
Fred Miller's Gothan HO layout

The National Model Railroad Association is the largest organization devoted to the development, promotion, and enjoyment of the hobby of model railroading. The NMRA was founded in 1935 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in order to provide a service to the hobby of model railroading.

Getting Started
in Model Railroading

The NMRA has developed the "Introduction To Model Railroading" to introduce people to model railroading. Our goal is to help those who are interested in building a model railroad but who have never done it before or to assist those who may have a simple track plan and now want to learn more.

Why Join the NMRA?

  • Fellowship

    Members at all levels of the NMRA are eager to share their knowledge and friendship in local divisions, regions and on the national level.

  • Member Services

    Being a member of the NMRA entitles you to a multitude of services, all geared toward expanding your enjoyment of the hobby.

  • Standards

    The NMRA was the organization that set those Standards and Recommended Practices which still guide manufacturers and consumers alike.

  • Achievement Program

    The NMRA's Achievement Program,or "AP", is designed to help modelers improve their skills and get more out of their hobby. The "AP" gives recognition to members who have displayed a high degree of skill or service to the hobby.

Join/Renew

Webmaster's Choice Award

Steve Mallery's PRR Buffalo Line

Steve Mallery's PRR Bufflao Line is designed for prototype operations. Steve is a real-life dispatcher on the Norfolk Southern. The railroad is modeled on the PRR between Buffalo and Erie, both represented by staging yards. The railroad is bi-level and features grades which normally require helpers. Trains run from 25 to 55 cars, quite long for an HO model railroad. CTC dispatching is used, with interlocking and track occupancy. An operating session normally requires 12 people.

The web site, designed by Jeff Warner, is well laid out, with lots of pictures organized as a layout tour. 

Steve took the pictures, all rights reserved.

Shop @ the NMRA

  • Heritage/Legend Cars
    • Lower Level Line Boxcar
      Lower Line Level
    • St. Clair Northern Boxcar
      St. Clair Northern
  • Books
    • Postwar Freight Car Fleet Book
      Postwar Freight Car Fleet

See More in the Online Store!