Season 2 Episode 3 "Hometown Rails Tom Jacobs 1970 Reading Division"
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Season 2 Episode 3 "Hometown Rails Tom Jacobs 1970 Reading Division"
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Narrated by:
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By:
Summary
In this episode of the Iron City Roundhouse Report, Bradd and Pat welcome accomplished HO‑scale modeler Tom Jacobs, whose work is deeply rooted in the railroad heritage of Reading, Pennsylvania. Tom takes listeners inside his meticulously crafted 1970s Reading Division layout, a project inspired by his family’s long-standing connection to the Reading Railroad.
Tom walks us through the design and operation of his layout, which centers on the east–west Cross Line and the heavy industrial traffic that once fed Bethlehem Steel. He shares how he approaches operational sessions, implements CTC signaling, and continues to expand scenery and structures across the layout.
Listeners will enjoy Tom’s insights into:
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Prototype‑based operating practices
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Balancing realism with practicality in model railroading
Tom also offers thoughtful advice for modelers of all experience levels: stay curious, embrace new tools and technologies, ask questions, and—most importantly—make a little progress on your layout every day.
Whether you’re a Reading Railroad enthusiast, an operations‑focused modeler, or simply love hearing from passionate hobbyists, this episode delivers inspiration and practical wisdom in equal measure.