Pittsburgh Incline Model

Ah, the incline. Known to many as a funicular because it is so dang fun, at least the first time. I mean, what is better than riding a train besides riding a train at a 70º angle! Here's a model of the of one for no good reason.

Model Town

That's more like it: a prosperous, thriving miniature little town with nary a disaster in site. Actually, kind of boring...though that giant head in the upper right hand corner could cause some trouble.

Model Rundown House

Things are tough in model land when even some of their houses are dilapidated. I mean, come on, if we are going to make models, let's make them all happy places, like this place. Instead, what we see are natural disasters occurring on the miniature scale. Anyhow, this kicks off perhaps the third "miniatures" week we've had here on the B&WE. I can't help it; I love models of things and wish I had a doll house as a little kid. I tried building one while in college, and managed to take off sizable portion of my thumb with a razor blade in the process. This week's montage will feature pictures from a model railroad set-up north of the quaint town of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Model Railroad Fire

Four alarm fire by the looks of it. Luckily, none of the model railroad people were hurt.

Model Train Farm

I can't help it; I love miniatures. I used to work at a craft store and, if I was a girl, I would be buying doll house furniture like it was going out of style. The big pumpkin in the back of the truck is probably going to a contest for largest pumpkin in the county since that sucker is huge! Almost the size of my little toe.

Model Railroad Rollercoaster

This is at the Roads and Rails museum. The roller coaster is activated by pushing a button outside of the display and is part of a whole amusement park set-up. As you can see, there are tons of trains going by of all shapes and sizes. Fun for all ages (except surly teenagers).

Model Railroad Drive-in Movie Theater

In reality, this is the best mini-drive-in theater I've ever seen. I am not sure what they used for the screen, but I had to explain to my daughter what I drive-in movie theater was. Heck, I've probably only been to 3-4 in my lifetime. The only movie I remember seeing at one was "Young Einstein " I am still waiting for my money back and what happened to Yahoo Serious?

Large Falling Water Lego Model

Also at the Building Museum by Adam Reed Tucker, this one had absolutely no trees or simulated water. I suppose they wanted to focus on the house itself. But what makes the house so special is the setting above a creek in the middle of the woods. The creek acts as a natural air conditioner by sending a cool breeze up the stairs into the open house. Nevertheless, the way the stones are staggered is outstanding.