July 27, 1999
Model trains right on track at county fair
By Malinda Ruble
Staff Writer
The Seneca County Fair is known for its harness races, demolition derbies and tractor pulls. But for the first time, miniature trains will be featured at the fair this year.
Some local citizens and the Seneca HO Enthusiasts have put together a model train display, complete with tunnels, bridges and babbling brooks.
"Jeff Paxton from Kansas came up with the idea in February. Most of the trains are Jeff's and Harvey Staib's and Bob Weiker's,'' said Kerry Scaife, who was serving as attendant for the display Monday.
Seneca County Fair Board member Tom Miller said the display, which is located behind the area of the Junior Fair Youth Center, has been a wonderful addition to the fair.
"There used to be a building here and we wanted to have something here, so they came up with this,'' said Miller.
Scaife said the group, comprised of volunteers, began setting the track about two weeks ago. Then the volunteers worked each night during the past week building the display, which is made out of donated materials.
"It took a lot of work. It took a lot of effort and a lot of nice donations to bring this all together,'' said Miller.
But for the volunteers, the effort was worth it just to see others enjoying the trains.
"We just all kind of like trains. We like to share the hobby with others. We like to promote the hobby and show people what can be done with little effort,'' Scaife said.
Although Monday was just the second day of the fair, Miller said the new display already is a hit.
"With the harness racing Sunday, there were a lot of people here watching, and at night, with the lights, you can see it going into the tunnel. It's fun to watch the kids watching it,'' Miller said.
If the display appears to be successful, Scaife said it will probably return next year.
"If it's a success, we'll probably do it next year &emdash; maybe a little bigger. But we'll be here with it at the next flea market in August,'' Scaife said.
Fair-goers can see the display daily at the Seneca County Fair for the remainder of the week.