Model trains chug through Ramstein Sunday

by Petra Lessoing
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs


The culture center in Ramstein-Miesenbach, Haus des Bürgers, will turn into a mecca for model train enthusiasts Sunday when the Model Train Friends Westpfalz will host their 41st Model Train Swap Meet from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Exhibitors and clubs from around Germany and neighboring countries will present everything dealing with model trains and accessories. This swap meet is known as the biggest of its kind in Southwest Germany.

“More than 50 exhibitors and associations from Germany and other countries will display everything having to do with model trains,” said organizer Hans-Günther Wenner. “Unfortunately, we were not able to invite all exhibitors since there is only a limited space capacity.”

Not only do organizers want the event to be a swap meet, they also want to make sure that unique items are on display. Besides new items, there will be used locomotives, carriages, tracks, signals, houses, lamps, bridges and spare parts on display.

“New and long-time model train collectors can get good advice here and find some neat bargains,” Wenner said.  “There will be a special test track, where the newly bought stuff can be tested right away.”

Also on display will be garden railroad tracks and items presented by garden railroad vendors.

As in previous years, this year’s swap meet will include the display of dolls, tin toys and other hobby items.

Visitors can take a break in a model train cafe in the foyer of the Haus des Bürgers. Admission fee is €3 for adults and €1 for youth. Children under 6 are admitted free.