Arizona Big Train Operators

The purpose of the Arizona Big Train Operators (ABTO) is to promote and advance the interest of large-scale garden railroading in Arizona through the camaraderie of its membership, to discuss and share ideas, to assist one another in model railroading projects, and to provide its membership with the opportunity to operate large scale trains.

The forming group got together in the mid 1990’s. At that time, it was just a group of people interested in "G" scale trains. However in 1996, the Arizona Big Train Operators became an organized club. By-laws were written and a Board of Directors was elected with Jack Slinkard officiating as the first president. Following him as presidents were: Jim Brown, Tony Vacek, Al Wendler, Ennis Thompson, Ed Dunshie, Bob Rauperstrauch and now our current president, Tony Vacek (2nd Term).

Front Row L to R: Jack Slinkard (Deceased), Tony Vacek; Back Row L to R: Ennis Thompson, Jim Brown, Al Wendler, Bob Rauperstrauch Missing for the group photo is Ed Dunshie.

In the early years, ABTO had a module layout to promote the hobby which consisted of privately owned sections made of wood and Styrofoam and contained one track. The modules were under constant repair and were eventually discarded. A new 30’ x 60’ steel module loop was built in 2002 by Dan Hoag of EagleWings Iron Craft. This design was superior to the first layout because it contained two mainlines and four large passing tracks. Eventually, four more sidings were added to the center to store trains which would alternate on the outer loops. Soon, dioramas were built by volunteers and added along the insides of the layout for the added “G” scale railroad garden look, and the modules continue to grow and add entertainment to many events to promote the hobby.

In 2003, Rich Hull thought ABTO was a large enough organization, with plenty of train experience in the membership to be able to sponsor a National Garden Railroad Convention in Arizona. Joining forces with The Tucson Garden Railroad Society, the idea was proposed at that time. Today the Convention Committee is working hard to make this 2008 NGRC Pics the best ever.

In 2004, ABTO contacted Phoenix Children’s Hospital to suggest building a layout for the children. It was constructed by many ABTO volunteers and is maintained under Jerry McKenzie's guidance. The railroad provides enjoyment for patients, families, medical staff, and doctors.

In 2006, ABTO was asked to help maintain and operate The Isabel Memorial Railroad at Banner Desert Medical Center Children’s Hospital. With the assistance of the ABTO volunteers under the direction of Bob Clark, a very large "G" scale layout is once again enjoyed by many people, visiting, working , and staying in the hospital.

John Osborn (Right side) was able to attend the June 2006 meeting through the courtesy of Bob Clark. John is one of our original club members who celebrated his 90th birthday in 2006.

Photos 1&2- During our ABTO 2006 Christmas Party, Jerry Mckenzie presented special award plaques to Jack Slinkard (right) for his original membership and first presidency, as well as overseeing the development of the bylaws and John Osborn (left) for being one of the original members and his participation in the early days of the club.