Meet Jerry Paladino
How did you get started in the hobby?
I was looking for a hobby that would help me relieve workplace stress. Two friends recommended that I build a model railroad. My Dad and grandfather both worked for Union Pacific in Council Bluffs, as well as in Omaha, so I was already interested in the railroad. It was a perfect fit for me.
What was your first large scale locomotive?
A Colorado & Southern LGB Mogul.
What’s your favorite part of the hobby?
I love building. I’ve scratchbuilt a double mainline wood trestle, depot, grain elevator, water tower, coaling tower, even a replica of my grandfather’s shoe repair shop [See page 54 in the June 2013 issue].
What’s your least favorite part?
Track maintenance and dealing with weeds.
What has been your biggest modeling success?
Using a copy from an original blueprint I obtained from a U.P. Headquarters employee to scratchbuild a Union Pacific depot. I used the blueprint to build the structure which had a fully detailed and lit interior.
What was your biggest modeling mistake?
I should have soldered each joint on my LGB track. As the layout got older, I dealt with conductivity issues.
What advice would you give to a new hobbyist?
Buy only quality track and engines. Also invest in good materials for a solid, problem-free roadbed.
More by the author
Building Divono Shoe Repair in 1:29 scale
A garden railroad for my golden years
