What is a Rail Prototype Meet?
In this hobby there are train shows, conventions, and clubs where modelers can share the hobby. All of these are places to meet other modelers, learn new skills and buy new products. However, sometimes there is not a great place for modelers to bring what they are working on to share with others, or a place show off the project they just completed or to check out the work of others in detail. This is where the Rail Prototype Meet fits, a place to focus on the detail work of modelers.
An RPM is not meant for the general public. The main event at an RPM is the Model Display Room which has models sitting on tables, confident that all attendees will be respectful. The tables are raised higher than normal to help save our backs from bending far to see details. The tablecloths are white to help show off the models and there is no assigned space so you will see a diverse display.
If this is your first time to attend an RPM, here is how the Model Display Table works:
- You can bring up to 10 items. They can be railcars, locomotives, structures, or scenes. Please be aware the space is shared, so keep it to only a portion of a table in total.
- You can create your own description document or download a form from the website. You may also bring drawings or photos of the prototype. If you do bring documentation, it is customary to keep it confined to a smaller space or only bring one or two items if you have paper and photos to display also.
- You can bring a work-in-progress item. It is always interesting to see how things are done.
- You pick a place on the white clothed tables to put your items, working with those around you to ensure you all have space. Space is not pre-assigned; you just have to get along!
- Be ready to discuss your work and to discuss with others about their models.
- There is no contest, no judging, only the sharing of ideas and knowledge.
- Items are picked up by you at the end of the RPM.
- You do not have to bring anything to attend the RPM, you can enjoy the work of others.
Another aspect of an RPM is education and the sharing of skills and knowledge. This can be in the form of clinics or hands on stations. CORPM will have both. There will be a clinic track with clinicians that have themes around the RPM. There will also be a few tables with hands-on workshops. These are where you can sit down for a moment with an expert and try your hand at the skill being taught. If you have a skill you can show off at a table or a clinic to give, please contact the CORPM staff.
The models, clinics, and workshops are the backbone of an RPM, but many RPMs add on extra events. These can be layout open houses, operating sessions, or tours. Every RPM is unique.
There is one underlying theme that spans all RPMs and Modelers Meets, and that is fellowship. In midst of having fun showing off our models, the goal is that we meet each other. That new friendships are created and the hobby is enriched. You come for the modeling but stay for the fellowship.
