Valley Model Railroad, South Elgin

About Valley Model Railroad

Valley Model Railroad is an HO-scale model railroad club founded in 1949, housed in the historic Clintonville Station building in South Elgin. Visitors watch and operate detailed model trains on the club's permanent layout, which uses computer-based technology to control the trains and track systems. The club also maintains a portable layout that appears at train shows and events, including the monthly Great Midwest Train Show at the DuPage County Fairgrounds and Lambs Farm Train Day. Guests can run their own trains on the layouts during operating hours. The clubhouse building dates from 1902 and has served as the club's home since 1953. The club welcomes visitors of all ages, including children and adults with special needs. Membership is open to anyone, with those under 18 sponsored by an adult. The club engages young people by making model railroading accessible through hands-on experience with working equipment and technology.