Welcome to the NMS Narrow Gauge modelers website. The NMS is an On30 point-to-point narrow gauge modular layout. As a club we set up our layout in malls, bookstores, and other public places in an effort to promote the hobby of model railroading and, above all else, have fun. Inspired by John Allen, Malcolm Furlow, the Redstag Lumber Co. and others we formed 3 years ago with the vision of creating a modular layout to bring narrow gauge modeling to the public. The New Mexico Southern is a freelance railroad servicing the southwest in or around 1937. The layout is a point-to-point operation with return loops at both ends. The trains are controlled using DCC (digital command control) and many of our locomotives include onboard sound.

When assembled the twelve modules create a 46’ by 10’ layout with room for expansion. All the modules have been built in one member’s custom cabinet shop. They are built using a variety of materials including wood, ply wood, and foam and then laminated with a granite patterned Formica. When displayed, a black skirt hangs around the bottom of the layout. Each module is indexed to the next with pins for easy set up and fewer legs. Because of the large size of some of the modules (some as big as 5’ square) we have taken a donated 26’ fifth wheel trailer and gutted it to make a dedicated module hauler.

All of the track is hand laid code 70 rail on hand cut ties with hand built live frog switches. Modeling and scenery is shared in by all members, relying on one another’s strengths. Train control is achieved using Digitraxx DCC with a variety of manufacturers decoders in the various equipment. On board sound is achieved using systems from Soundtraxx and BLI. Point to point track allows for switching operations while automated return loops provide continuous running. We usually run 3 to 4 locomotives at a time during set ups and are capable of running as many as 99 at once with the current system (if only we had the space!).

Contact the Southern New Mexico Narrow Gauge Modellers Club by E-mailing us at Tonyh1@zianet.com

or call Tony Hale at 1-505-382-1269