Pelican Key

Note: This is not a 'How To', but a display of a completed 'Scratchbuilt Project' showing what can be done with some materials and time. It does not have to have been judged for AP Points.

(Click on the small images for the full size view.)

November 2, 2004

Here are some photographs of "Pelican Key", a mostly scratchbuilt HO scale diorama. This diorama won first place in the off line display category at the NMRA Sunshine Region convention in Deerfield Beach last month. I also received an achievement program merit award. The following is a description of the diorama. I hope you can see fit to include it in the Scratchbuild Showcase. More pictures can be found at http://www.geocities.com/whiteydurham

Thanks, Leon

Pelican Key diorama

by Leon Durham of Jacksonville, Florida

Scratch built structures except for the crab trap which is from a Campbell kit. Loading dock, shed and air compressor are metal and resin kits from Surrey custom models.

The ship chandlery was originally built as "Perkin's Produce" from an article in Railroad Model Craftsman back in the 1970s. It was later altered to fit the waterfront scene and windows from Tichy added.

Scenery is styrofoam and Sculptamold with foliage and simulated water from Woodland Scenics. Palm trees are from "Hart of the South Models" kits and the truck is from a Jordan kit. Figures are Prieser and Woodland Scenics and seagulls are by Sheepscot Scale Products.

The trawler is scratch built from cardboard and basswood with parts from a Lindberg boat kit and masts from atlas telephone poles. The small boats are castings by Rod Guthrie of Railway Design Associates.

Details are from Woodland Scenics and other sources that I can't remember.

Paint and weathering is with acrylic craft paints, India ink/alcohol, and dry brushing. Powdered pastel chalks were also used.

Leon Durham

If you wish to submit a photo for consideration, send the photo (no larger than 800x600 please) to TJ Klevar along with a description of how you built it, techniques you used, and any special tips you wish pass along.