Profile Pitch

I intend on doing exactly what I described in class last week: I plan on doing a profile on the Kalamazoo Model Railroad Historical Society. KMRHS has been active for fifty years, and the rules of participating - and the layout of the model railroad tracks - have stayed consistent throughout (some mountains have moved in the tracks, but everything is still accurate to the year 1960 - no models are from after that year). I am interested, specifically, in what draws people to a place and an activity that one of its members described as "like a computer game, but in 3D, and not as fast." Members put in considerable time and effort to make sure the tracks and trains are running smoothly (and accurately; this includes keeping the electrical wiring up to date and functional) and into refurbishing their prize possession: a real, full-size old caboose that has been restored to its original glory and is now used as a main method of attraction. They also make sure the headquarters are open to public for certain set hours twice a week, and attend regular Operating Session where they run the trains according to a specific schedule.

I am interested in what drives people to spend this time and effort on model trains. Previous encounters with KMRHS members have made it clear to me that they find this an important creative pursuit. I want to know more about how participating lets them express themselves, and whether there is a common thread in the pasts of the members that draws them to participate. I'm also interested to see what comes up when I'm interviewing members. I plan on interviewing two or three to get a good sense of KMRHS.