My HO scale layout is a representation of the Maine Central (MEC) Portland Division as it existed in 1951. The aim of constructing this layout is to (1) model key portions of this scenic line so that they are recognizable and (2) to reproduce the operational experience of the prototype.

The layout represents the MEC mainline from Royal Jct. (13 mi NE of Portland) to Brunswick, along with two stub-end branches that diverge from the mainline at Brunswick. The layout is designed for point-to-point operation with an emphasis on wide aisles, reach-in accessibility with no hidden trackage, and minimal complexity of benchwork and wiring. As much as possible, I follow prototype track plans and model the actual structures, while still allowing significant scene compression and infilling the many unknowns with things that “look right”.

In this presentation, I will briefly illustrate the prototype and talk about the choices and compromises made to represent it in layout form. We will then take a photographic tour focusing on the modeling of several notable locations and discussing the various approaches used to represent specific structures and features. Finally, I will summarize operational aspects, showing some information on the prototype procedures and how these have been adapted for timetable and train order (TTTO) layout operations.