The Shadow
•
•
The Virginian Review has its annual model train layout in operation for visitors.
With the push of one button, four trains and a trolley operate on an O gauge layout.
This is the 13th year the display has been operational and changes are made each year.
As the trains move around a circle, Christmas music plays from a recorder activated by the switch.
This year on the outside track is a replica of the Polar Express made famous in the book by Chris Van Allsburg and the 2004 movie.
Next is the Hogwarts Express, also made famous by books and a movie, Harry Potter. The third train is a steam locomotive whose prototype, C&O 701, is at the Covington Main Street Park where it has been since Nov. 17, 1954.
The model is pulling three box cars, two Virginia Tech and a University of Virginia.
The inner circle train is unique and includes two Lionel steam locomotives, each over 65 years old, doubleheading.
One of the engines was modified in Covington in the 1950s to accommodate the special connection as toy manufacturers did not provide this feature.
Running in a half circle above all four is a M&M trolley.
The models were made by Lionel, MTH, RailKing and Weaver.
Residents are invited to bring youngsters to the newspaper on Maple Avenue to view and run the trains at no charge.
A short video is available at www.thevirginianreview.com.
(Gavin Dressler Photo)
