Supping a pint at The Model Railway Club a couple of weeks ago, I had the chance to enjoy this vintage S gauge model.
Built to 5mm:1ft scale, the model has an interesting history. In 1947, there was disagrement within the S Scale Society as to which scale they should work to - 5mm or 3/16" to the foot. The decision was that the next person to join should decide.
That person chose 3/16", and the model found itself too large. So, the builder took it apart, reduced every part, then put it back together again! I'm assuming that this expediency was forced because of the difficulty in obtaining materials for modelmaking.
Now in safe hands, along with a large number of other historic models owned by the club, this loco is being rebuilt so it can run again in the future.
A fascinating glimpse into the history of our hobby, over some nice beer.
The name of S gauge was chosen because of Seven-eighths, three-Sixteenths, and one-Sixty-fourth. Suggested by either the editor or publisher of Model Railroader.
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