RPO Newsbag

This is the Lowell Smith Signature Series and RailSmith blog, (or perhaps it's better called, ‘stories around the caboose stove’). Either way, bookmark this page for updates as they happen and check back regularly!

It’s all about the story…

I have been asked, “Have you always loved trains?”  The response is, “Yes ever since I can remember.”  I have memories of being small and having Grandma come to visit us in Chico, CA by way of the Shasta Daylight.  There are also photos of me in Gerber, CA standing on the platform of a bay-window…

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American Freedom Train on the Blues

For most it’s a life dream to build a model railroad. For the past 25 years one of my rail buddies, Keith Schaber, has been building his Union Pacific Blue Mountain Division. Built on two levels, with operating signals and many sidings, a train will take a real 50-plus minutes to go from one end to the…

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Office Car Special Power!

Here is something different. I have set up to do a survey and would love to get your opinion. The Norfolk Southern’s Office Car Special has it’s own special power of F units. Running the complete train the units are run in A-B-B-A configuration. I have chosen the InterMountain Railway’s F7 for this as they…

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Latest On The Track

What They Say:

J D

Thanks, Lowell, for another awesome addition to an already incredible train.

K.

My kids absolutely love the Christmas cars! The C.K. Holiday, along with the Carolwood and Disney cars makes a wonderful Christmas train. It made many a loop under our tree this year.

Linda and Pete B.

Just wanted to thank you again for the opportunity to be with you and the many other happy folks who experienced the Feather River Canyon trip.  I know you put a lot of work into making this special trip a reality and it all came together extremely well!

Jeff B.

Keep up setting the bar high and providing a product that exceeds expectations.

J. Echlin

Many thanks for your superb offerings and beautiful work!

D.G.

Nothing better than receiving that white box from Lowell Smith.

Dan & Nina D.

So glad our big Alaska trip happened when it did.  It was the trip of a lifetime for me and Nina, thank you so much for organizing it.

Chuck T.

Just a quick note to acknowledge receipt of my AFT Tool Car. Thanks so much for another Outstanding Piece of Craftsmanship! The AFT is my most prized “N” Scale collection. I had perceived that there were delays in getting this last car into our hands, but thought it was a problem with China. Your letter…

R. M.

Lowell, I just want you to know – you make this hobby fun!

George H.

Blunt End Observation is a GRAND SLAM! I’ve wanted this car for ages but never figured out a good way to kitbash it.