We are moving . . .

The K & I will soon have a NEW permanent home   .   .   .

Construction is in progress right now at Clark Station Shopping Center in Clarksville. We don’t have a date yet but we expect to move in the 1st quarter of 2025. We will be moving both our current HO scale layouts PLUS we will add a 3rd layout at our new location.

We will be closed to guests while we move the layouts and reassemble them at the new site. We will be ready for visitors again as soon as possible so the public can enjoy the Model Railroading Hobby.

Come back here to our website to follow our progress. Or follow us on Facebook and Instagram – links on the bottom of our homepage.

Hello Milepost 31 !

With the arrival of the 2024 and the fifth year of a new decade, the K & I Model Railroad Club marks another significant milestone in its journey as the premier model railroad club in the Kentucky and Indiana region.  From an extremely humble beginning of a few guys in a garage in 1993, the K & I has grown to a group of almost 32 individuals with extremely varied backgrounds and talents.  The members have one thing in common   .   .   .    they enjoy model railroads and the fellowship of others who also enjoy them.  So, as we celebrate 2024, we also celebrate the 31st Anniversary of the K & I Model Railroad Club.  

Support our Local Hobby Shops

Louisville is very fortunate to have 2 local hobby shops. If you need model railroading supplies, these are 2 great resources. Each sell model trains, supplies and can help you with the hobby. Both are locally owned and operated. Shop Local !

To visit Roundhouse Electric Trains – click here

To visit Scale Reproductions Hobby Shop – click here

Learn About Model Railroads

At the K & I Model Railroad Club, we specialize in making sure our club members are well informed and put detail into all of their model railroad projects. As mentors and advisers, part of our mission is to educate our membership and the public about the joys of model railroading.

Thanks for your support

The K & I is a 501(c)(3) organization.  If you’re looking for a great place to make a donation, this would be the place to do so.   (Depending upon your situation, this donation may be tax-deductible. Check with your tax advisor.) 

Send donations to:  K & I Model Railroad Club, PO Box 192, Buckner, KY 40010-0192

Thanks for your support!

A little about us . . . .

The K & I Model Railroad Club is an HO scale model railroad club based in Louisville, Kentucky. We started in a garage in 1993 with the goal of introducing the public to the hobby of model railroading, preserving railroad history and information, and bringing new members and ideas to our hobby. Our goal is to provide a model railroading experience that educates, inspires and brings joy to all ages.

The K & I is a 501(c)(3) registered charitable organization.

We are affiliated with the NMRA – National Model Railroad Association and we are a 100% NMRA Club.

Independence Day

In preparation for the American Bicentennial in 1976, the American Freedom
Train Foundation inaugurated a 26-car train which would display American
historical treasures throughout the United States.  To prepare for the
actual event, a special train dubbed the “Preamble Express” ran the routes
planned for the event.  Union Pacific E-9 #951 (currently used on the UP’s
executive train) was selected to head the consist . . . only a few cars with a
planning crew to study logistical support, track conditions, etc.

The Freedom Train itself was powered by several steam locomotives.  These
included Reading 4-8-4 #2101 (dubbed “America” #1), Texas & Pacific 2-10-4
#610, and Southern Pacific 4-8-4 Daylight #4449.  All locomotives and cars
were decorated appropriately for America’s birthday celebration.

K & I Member Ed Brennan captured the essence of the power when locomotives #951 and #1
were posed in Bison Springs on his L&N Blackberry Branch layout.

Getting Started With Model Railroading

A common question we get is “Which scale of model of trains should I start off with?”. It’s a great question and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Choosing the right model train scale for you from the beginning could save a lot of money and frustration down the road. There are many factors to consider such:

  • Price
  • The Amount of space you have
  • Whether or not you have an understanding spouse
  • And many more…

Do not over do it; start small and grow your railroad.  You will enjoy it more!

Please also consider joining the NMRA, the National Model Railroad Association. Every member of the NMRA was once at the beginning of building their first layout. Become a member and learn from folks who have been where you may be now. And if you want hands on experience, well that’s why the K & I Model Railroad Club exists. Go to the “MEMBERSHIP” tab on our homepage for more information.

The K & I Model Railroad Club

Model Railroads – It’s all in the detail

When it comes to model railroads, it’s all in the detail.  What makes a model railroad setup spectacular is the amount of detail that goes into the project.   Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of a busy railroad yard, cozy little back woods station, deep ravines, mountain peaks, high plains or coastal seaports, convincing scenery is within anyone’s reach.  The scenery gives every model railroad is own personality.

 

We have a great Club

Sometime we might forget the club is not a building but, the body of the combined membership. Thanks to all who participate!

Stan White
Membership Chairman