Touring the Model Railroad of C.J. Riley

In part two of the 9-part Kanawha & Western Allegheny series, Allen Keller provides a complete run down of the journey traveled by AG-1 on the Appalachian rails of C.J. Riley. You will learn more about the scenic elements on the layout and the American industries of 1942 when steam power was at its peak.

Behind the Scenes Tour of The Kanawha & Western Allegheny

The Kanawha & Western Allegheny line begins at the staging yard, travels through Armstrong, Beech Creek, Cowen and moves through an area under construction before reaching Gauley Mills. Gauley Mills is a small town nestled next to the mountains and is home to the Pocahontas Coal Company and the Bradley Lumber Company. The track also passes the Farm Supply Company, Davey Steel Mill, Atkins Coal Company, and Cowen Brickworks. Many local industries are thriving during this time due to World War II.

The Kanawha & Western Allegheny track is built around the walls of C.J.’s basement spanning an area of 20 by 30 feet. The majority of the track is hand laid with the exception of some track that is not easily visible. As the exploration of the Kanawha & Western Allegheny continues, Allen and C.J. jump further into the operations, inspiration and techniques of the layout.