An introduction by Ed More
The Isle of Man has gained popularity over the past decade for modellers in 15mm scale since the introduction of ready-to-run locomotives and rolling stock, and an ever-expanding range of kits.
The Island’s rail system had its terminus at the capital Douglas, and lines ran out to Peel in the west, Ramsey in the north and Port Erin in the south. Additionally, short branches connected the mining village of Foxdale and the WW1 internment camp at Knockaloe to the network.
These days only the 15 or so miles from Douglas to Port Erin survive, operating services for tourists and locals alike for most months of the year.
2-4-0T locomotives were supplied by Beyer Peacock & Co for the most part, although the Dubs 0-6-0 “Caledonia” has attained near legendary status, and Sharp Stewart supplied a couple of 2-4-0T locomotives to the Manx Northern Railway.
The final pair of Walker Bros’ Railcars supplied to the County Donegal Railway have also had a long presence on Isle of Man rails.
Our modellers’ group is over 60 members strong, some playing a more active part than others in collaborating content for the Group’s website. We boast a mix of track powered and live steam members, scratch builders and those happy to run “off the shelf” models.
Membership is intended for designers / collectors / builders / operators of Isle of Man Railway themed models in 15mm scale who are happy to contribute occasional new content for the website and to receive occasional topical news, promotions and surveys by email.
The recently updated website is viewable by all and can be found at www.iom15milgroup.com. It includes lots of modelling articles, photo galleries, reference materials and a sales/wants listing service.
Daily discussion on all things related to Isle of Man Railway modelling in all scales now takes place on a separate Facebook public group at www.facebook.com/groups/470845669775580.