Hi-rail O gauge modeler Peter Atonna’s work last graced the cover of Classic Toy Trains in October 2017, but his relationship with the magazine goes back at least two layouts to the May 1997 issue. His current one, the detail-packed Seligman & Paulden Lines, showcases the best of long passenger and freight trains running through southern Arizona scenery. Here’s more about him.
My first train set was…? A Marx wind-up in 1946. I don’t know how my parents decided I needed a train set, but my father, although not interested in toy trains, did get a 1946 Lionel catalog and a couple of the 1940’s Lionel booklets – which he gave me and I still have! That ignited a train passion in me, so next Christmas I wrote Santa for a Lionel train. [I] got another Marx windup, was told I was “too young” for an electric train. Finally in 1948 a Lionel set no. 1429WS arrived.
My trains are primarily from this era (i.e. prewar, postwar, modern, digital)…? I’ve been a modeler since that first train, having dabbled in O scale, done two HO and two N gauge layouts. But I came back to three rail O gauge and have been there since. My current layout is all command controlled with scale equipment. But I’ve recently built a small, around the wall, “retro” layout to enable me to run postwar trains.
My biggest modeling success has been…? A life-long enjoyment of the hobby, its social side, and the ability to build nice layouts.
My biggest modeling mistake was…? Mistake, we never admit to making a mistake…. Maybe if I had it to do over again, I would not have sold my original and scratchbuilt train cars – even though they were totally repainted. It still would be great memories to have them.
When I’m not enjoying my trains I’m usually (other hobbies or activities)…? My wife enjoys horse and carriage sports events (not racing). So we have a full competition course here and I am involved in organizing our state carriage club’s events.
Advice I would give a new hobbyist is…? Buy a set, any set, run the set and you will not want to stop.
