The Prairie State Railroad Club is comprised of railroad enthusiasts who share a passion for the building and operation of large scale model railroad equipment. Ours is 1:8 or 1-1/2โณ scale, meaning that on average, the locomotives and other railroad cars are 1/8โณ the size of the real thing. The gauge (distance between the rails) of our track is 7-1/2โณ gauge, which makes it possible for the engineer to actually ride his train and perhaps even carry a few passengers. Modeling in this general size, is generically referred to as โlive steam railroadingโ because it is practical size to build models of steam locomotives that actually use steam for propulsion and are large enough for the engineer to ride on as well. Besides steam locomotive operators, the โlive steamโ hobby now includes persons who favor diesel locomotives (usually gasoline or battery powered) or electric railway cars such as interurbans. At Prairie State, we welcome them all! In fact, you do not need to own any equipment to participate in the clubโs activities. It should be noted that the operation of these scale model trains is solely for the enjoyment of their owners and guests is not to be confused with miniature railroads that are sometimes found at amusement parks or zoos. The railroads at those venues are considerably larger and are designed specifically to haul large numbers of passengers. For that reason the club does not accommodate the general public with the exception of a few events that are conducted under the auspices of other organizations.