When I originally was designing the new layout in its N scale version I had planned on doing a totally free-lanced design, but had decided that I was not really into painting the smaller engines and cars, and mostly because I could not decide on a paint scheme or logo. In the current HO version I had decided to base the layout on operations in Northern New England if CR had acquired the lines in the 1980's. As I worked on the history of the lines and planned scenery and track work it became more and more obvious that I my desires were more free-lanced, than CR lines in a "what would have been".

Taking a break from one idea I sat down and worked with a Givens and Druthers matrix to pit my interests against each other to see which would more suit my interests. While I really enjoy prototype CR modeling, I determined that being so free-lanced with it would eat away at the plausibility of the layout, and effect its enjoyment. So based on my wants and needs I came to the conclusion with the matrix that a completely free-lanced road set in Northern New England would be the best approach.

Working from several ideas from Allen McClelland's Virginian & Ohio and Bill Darnaby's Maumee Route, it was determined that my free-lanced road needed to have a purpose, and operate like a real railroad. I was finally able to decide on a paint scheme and logo, and hammered out some history and operations. I feel that since I was able to bring closure to goals that I had a hard time with, that things are now moving along much more smoothly. I no longer need to to ask my would CR have done "such and such" and not be totally convinced with my decision, but state WHY my road is doing it, and how. The layout will not feature the "good enough" mindset that some free-lanced layouts go by, but will push the limit of realistic scenery and detail, following that of great B&M modelers like Paul Dolkos and Lou Sassi.

Being located in Northern New England, the Amoskeag Northern will also be compiled of former B&M and MEC trackage, and  operational schemes along with some modern upgrades from Conrail and NORAC. Decals have been ordered and a few QSI sound equip locos are about to enter the paint shop. Conrail will still be represented on the layout, however only in the role of bringing Western coal trains in from stating to be delivered to an energy plant run by PSNH.

Stay Tuned!