The ILSR Module Group put on an excellent display for what is officially known as the "13th Annual Blooms -N- Berries Fest" in Upland, Indiana. Our club first participated in this event in 2009 so this was our 5th anniversary appearance. Cindy Wright and the other festival organizers always treat us very well because our display is a major draw for the festival. The event is held in "Depot Park" in Upland:
Photos by David Palmeter
Our modular layout is a natural for a festival held in "Depot Park". There are even several model railroad scales displayed by Rex in the depot itself – including his own Lionel train (on the right) that he has had since he was 10 years old:
ILSR member Geoff Schwartz lives in Upland and does a great job getting anything that is needed by the module group. He also contributed some of his G Scale railroad equipment for both static (on the cabinet) and operating (on the wall) displays in the depot:
Further to the railroad theme, a 1923 Pennsylvania Railroad steel caboose next to the depot was open for free tours:
Of course, it was incumbent upon the ILSR members to try the strawberry shortcake, a real highlight of the event. And the organizers graciously provided us with free samples (along with lunch). I am sure Paul and Dave can vouch for the excellent treat (as soon as they are finished eating):
There was lots more to see – games for the little ones, crafts for the grownups, live music and other events. And right across the railroad tracks, a big 'Red Barn' youth center with our trains inside and out. Paul set up the outdoor Amtrak display:
The layout had limited space in 2009, 2010 (show below) and 2011 and had to be kept to a smaller size…..:
…..but in 2012 the building was expanded and a larger layout (turned 90 degrees) has been set up last year and this:
James ran a tight ship, great job, guys:
Young and 'more mature' all had a good time:
Check out this exciting live action Upland video – old time steam and modern diesel trains taking a full lap around the layout!!
More details from the Upland show on these modules that were displayed there: