Date/Time
Date(s) - Saturday, September 26, 2026
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
St. Alban's Church
3625 Chapel Rd.
Newtown Square, PA 19073
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Categories
On Saturday, September 26, 2026 the Philadelphia Division returns to St. Alban’s Church in Newtown Square for its upcoming meet. The address is 3625 Chapel Road (at PA-252), Newtown Square, PA 19073. Doors open at 8:30AM with the morning’s events to begin at 9:00.
The first clinic for this morning’s program will be presented by Treasurer Jeff Witt, titled “Electronics Tips, Tricks, and Lessons Learned: A retired electrical engineer’s advice and information for non-engineers.
Mystified by electronics? This talk includes discussions of basic theory, LEDs, diodes, and other components, wiring, power supplies and more, with examples and lessons learned to illustrate. Online resources will also be provided.
Jeff Witt, division treasurer, has been a long-time aficionado of everything John Allen, the famous model railroader and photographer whose photos and articles graced the pages of the model railroad magazines for decades. Jeff’s own HO model railroad, the Taggart Transcontinental, inspired by John Allen’s work, has been the subject of articles in past issues of The Dispatcher. Jeff has also presented several clinics over the years.
Our second clinic is why we are meeting at this location. Frank Martin, Chief Dispatcher of the St. Alban’s Model Railroad will present a clinic titled, “Introduction to Model Railroad Operations on the St. Albans Model Railroad.”
This two-session clinic is intended to introduce model railroad operations to those with little or no operating experience; others may find it interesting as well. The morning session will present and discuss railroad operations and how it is modeled on the St. Albans Model Railroad. The afternoon session will involve hands-on participation in an actual StARR operating session. Priority will be given to first-time operators for job assignments.
Don’t be scared! Come and operate! Regular StARR operators will be on hand to assist as needed.
The St. Alban’s Model Railroad Club had its beginnings as a modular club that met in its current location. It eventually became a permanent layout and through the dedicated work of its members has developed into one of the most impressive club layouts in the area.
All attendees are encouraged to bring a model in any level of progress to the meet for our display table and show and tell, if desired. As usual we’ll hold our 50/50 raffle, draw for door prizes, and have coffee, donuts, and Philly soft pretzels.
Following the morning program, lunch will be served consisting of three varieties of hoagies and pizza. Following lunch, we proceed downstairs to the club layout for the second half of the StARR clinic—the operating session.
Please come and join us for a morning of education, fellowship, and fun. Hope to see you there!
Just a note: We can always use help in setting up and tearing down the chairs, tables, and equipment at each meet. We welcome members to arrive early or stay a few minutes after to help out, and are happy to award AP credit toward your Volunteer certificate. Just make sure to mention it to Joe Walters or Earl Paine
