Nacogdoches Railroad Depot to host fifth-annual Loblolly Railroad Model Train Display

NACOGDOCHES, Texas - The Loblolly Railroad Model Train Display returns for a fifth year to the historic Nacogdoches Railroad Depot.

Sponsors for this year's event are Stephen F. Austin State University, SFA Center for Regional Heritage Research, City of Nacogdoches, Amtrak, Operation Lifesaver and Union Pacific.

All model trains will be on display at 101 Old Tyler Road, starting Friday, Nov. 27, and will operate from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 and Dec. 11; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, Dec. 5 and Dec. 12; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29, Dec. 6 and Dec. 13. The event is free and open to the public.

Presented by the Loblolly Crew, the three-rail O-gauge train layout is 12 feet by 16 feet and features two mainline loops of track, one designed to travel in a figure eight and another in a point-to-point trolley line. Spectators can enjoy watching vintage model steam and diesel engines pull passenger and freight cars around the depot's scenic display.

The Holiday Toy Trains display features buildings and attractions, all depicting a typical East Texas town. Scenery includes oil fields and industrial areas, a rail yard, a main street, and much more. This year's display also will feature brick streets. Additionally, representatives from Union Pacific Railroad and Operation Lifesaver will be on hand to discuss the importance of railroad safety.

Organized in 1999, the Loblolly Crew is a group of East Texas men who enjoy promoting and sharing their model train hobby with railroad enthusiasts and visitors alike.

For more information, contact the Center for Regional Heritage Research at (936) 468-3953.