A diverse group of individuals with a common interest gather twice a year at Dana’s Railroad Supply in Spring Hill. They are the Nature Coast Modelers. The group includes architects, custom car builders, a tug boat owner, a pharmacist, contractors and welders. Some are retired, others are still working and some are still in school. Their next gathering is March 26th, 2016 where they will be displaying their completed modeling projects or projects underway.
Modeling tips and techniques are discussed such as painting methods, glue types and mediums (plaster, metal, wood or plastic). Some in the group have 50 or more years of experience in modeling. These veteran modelers guide the younger ones in the group and those new to the hobby.
Building a model of a ship or airplane just scratches the surface of what these modelers really do. Many have invested a significant amount of time researching the historical background of their model’s subject. Attending this event as an observer provides a fantastic history lesson on dinosaurs, aeronautics, and even military armor.
On the less academic side, some modelers enjoy exploring the realm of science fiction through their work, modeling spaceships and comic book heroes.
“It’s a show and tell,” described Nancy Jackson, “Station Master” at Dana’s Railroad Supply. She also explained that many in the group have gone on to receive medals at modeling shows around the state. “The show gives them a goal to work toward,” she stated.
Dana Jackson opened Dana’s Railroad Supply in 2002. At that time they were mostly a model train shop. They soon came to realize that there wasn’t a whole lot of options for other types of modeling in the area and began to stock a wider variety of modeling materials.
In addition to the Nature Coast Modelers, they have an open house, train show and swap meet on select weekends. Inside the store they have constructed a 350 foot model train layout with trains running on Saturdays.
If you are interested in participating in the upcoming Nature Coast Modelers Show on March 26th, call Dana’s Railroad Supply at 352-684-2484. Finished and unfinished work is welcome as well as dioramas. Modelers must bring their own table and chair. There is no charge to show your work and no admission fee.
The Nature Coast Model show has grown from 6 individuals at its start four years ago to 2 dozen modelers. The show on March 26th promises to be quite a unique experience. Dana’s Railroad Supply is located at: 4042 Deltona Blvd, Spring Hill, FL 34606.