Now Available: SEPTA Hand-crafted Display Model Trains
February 27, 2023
Attention all train enthusiasts! Add a custom one-of-a-kind display model piece to your collection with one of SEPTA’s meticulously hand-crafted SEPTA train display models – now available at the SEPTA Online Store!
The collection of featured display models are replicas of cars ranging from the 1920s to those currently in service and have been scaled and designed from blueprints and measurements of the original cars.
Each individual display model features its own unique patina due to being assembled, hand-painted with acrylic paint, and are finished with multiple coats of spray gloss. All models are detailed by SEPTA personnel.
In previous years, SEPTA's train models were assembled by model train expert George Rice. George was a structural engineer for SEPTA for 18 years then retired in December 2005. He then began working for the SEPTA Store in February 2006 with the sole duties of building train layouts for the store and train models. When asked what his favorite part of the job was, George responded, "I love making people happy, especially little kids".
The new SEPTA Store Model Train Expert, Michelle, has been with SEPTA for 16.5 years. Michelle works on the 7th floor of SEPTA Headquarters where she gets work on and handcraft model trains in her own space. Each model can take up to days to complete and requires a lot of attention to detail and patience. “I am proud of the model trains and layout,” says Michelle, “My biggest inspiration is Ron’s Trains N Things, a famous YouTuber who helps DIYers with model railroading tips, tools, techniques, and more”.
These collectibles are for display only and dimensions vary per model. If you're interested in adding a piece of SEPTA history or a new hand-crafted display mode to your collection - look no further than the SEPTA Online Store!
