News: Structures
This report lists structure kits, pre-built structures, and/or structure-detailing parts. Click photos to visit the web sites.
John Armstrong's Model of Nighthawks
The link to the external web site takes you to an O-scale announcement and product review of the kits that make up a version of the John Armstrong's model of Nighthawks, which John based on the Edward Hopper's painting by that name. The O-scale version (shown in the photo) has already been produced, and the S-scale version are now also available (see second photo). The kits are designed and produced by Right On Track Models (on commission, so not listed on their site), and sold by Wit and Wisdom Models (no web site), which is owned by David Vaughn (see e-mail link -->). Click to send an e-mail.
Structure Kits by Larkspur LaserArt
The company re-releases two kits they had previously released under their Monster Model Works name.
New Structure Kits by Motrak Models
The company releases two new kits intended for narrow-gauge modelers, but could easily be of use as generic buildings on other layouts.
Modular Wall System by AcmeDAK
This newly-discovered manufacturer produces items in various scales. They already carry gondola loads for P-B-L cars, non-scale-specific retaining wall sections, short Sn2 tie strips. The company's owner is currently developing a new modular wall system in various scales, including S. He is planning on developing 4" tall and 6" wide wall sections that are 1/8" thick. Various shapes are being proposed (see photo). Each package/wall is $10, with easy online ordering. Shipping is estimated in the March to May, 2021 time-frame. This manufacturer produces items in batches; these are not continuously-in-stock items.
Kingfield Covered Station Kit by Portland Locomotive Works
Gary Kohler announced that he is going to create a kit for this station in S-scale. Since these are limited-run kits, he would need to know ahead of time how many to produce. If you have not yet expressed your interest in this kit, now is the time to do so. The Kingfield, Maine covered station was originally built for the Franklin & Megantic Railroad, and it became the longest-surviving covered station of the Sandy River & Rangeley Lakes Railroad. The problem with covered stations back then was the errand sparks from steam engines that caught the building on fire. Click to send an e-mail.
Two New Structure Kits by Right On Track Models
The company has listed two new kits (to us, at least) on their web site.
AF #761 Semaphore Parts by Port Lines Hobby Supply
Doug Peck announces that they now have the new replacement parts available for the AF semaphores. Newly available are the signal flag, the screw to attach it, and the pin to link it to the activation rod in the post. Note that the pin and lenses are already included in the flag. Previously available were the lenses, the socket, and the top finial.
Patterson, NJ Model by Todd Architectural Models & Layouts
A new S-scale shallow-relief structure is available. It is based on a still-standing factory in Patterson, NJ.
Structure Detailing Kits by Larkspur LaserArt
The company announces the availability of a new structure detailing kit, as well as several sheet goods.
Machine Works Kit by Larkspur LaserArt
The company announces their latest S-scale kit. It is based on the Hazard Powder Company building in Enfield, CT built in 1850. That company produced gunpowder and explosives from 1835 to 1913. Outside of that, this kit could used for any small industry on your railroad or diorama.
Last Chance Gas Kit by Crescent Creek Models
Crescent Creek Models produces O- and HO-scale structure kits, and they have now entered the S-scale market with their gas station kit. The model is based on a prototype Conoco station that stood in Penasco, NM. The kit is laser-cut and includes many details. The second photo also shows the road signs they make available in S-scale.
Silverton Northern Depot by Ragg's... to Riches?
This kit is based on the Silverton Northern Railroad's depot in Silverton, Colorado. Built in the late 1800s, it still stands today. It doesn't look like a depot, and, in fact, the prototype never had track within 100-feet of it. So, alternatively, the kit could be used for a small business (grocery, hardware store, tailor, tavern, mercantile, etc.) where the owner lives "in the back". It measures 3" wide by 15-1/2" long.
Corrugated Roofing by Wild West Models
The company has convenient corrugated roofing paper available, as an alternative to the aluminum-foil method.
Lamplighter Accessory by MTH Electric Trains
MTH announces that their "Gabe the Lamplighter" light tower is in. Constructed from stamped metal and durable ABS plastic, this unique floodlight tower sports an operating multi-light spire. At the base of the tower is a colorful maintenance shed. The tower can be powered from any AC model railroad power supply. These were listed in their 2019 catalog, and will be the last of the MTH-made accessories.
Detailing Parts Available by Hidden River Manufacturing
While not directly shown on their web site, if you view their S-scale price list PDF file, the last page shows part #HRM-903s, which is a kit that consists of the following items:
- waiting room bench.
- pigeon hole cabinet.
- office desk.
- office clock.
- ladder (5)
These all make great details to add to your passenger station structures.
2020 S-scale Catalog Available by Tichy Train Group
Tichy Train Group now has their 2020 S-scale catalog freely available as a downloadable PDF.
Detailing Parts by Modelu
Modelu is a British company that now has some structure detailing parts available. Be sure to check as not all of them are available in S-scale.
New Structure Kits by Motrak Models
Motrak Models has several new kits available in S-scale.
Announcement of Re-run of Cabin Creek Coal Tipple Kit by B.T.S.
B.T.S. is now taking orders for a re-run of this kit. It will be slightly different from the original version. Kits will be manufactured on a per-demand basis, so expect about a two-week delay in shipping.
90' Bridge Kit by B.T.S.
B.T.S announces a new kit now also available in S-scale. It is a 90-foot bridge. The kit includes the parts to make the bridge, and plenty of nut-bolt-washer castings to detail it to your heart's content. Rail and spikes are not included. O-scale model shown in the photo.
Carrabasset Freight Shed by Portland Locomotive Works
Portland Locomotive Works has completed their work on the O-scale version of their Carrabasset Freight Shed kit. A pre-production O-scale version is shown in the photo. They are planning on making one for S-scale as well. If you are interested, please contact the company. Click to send an e-mail.
Reviresco Announces Chinese Joss House by Reviresco
This paper model is designed to be built over a 1/4"-thick foamcore, and builds into a 12" x 8.5" model. The model is based on the prototype found in Weaverville, California. You can buy the printed version, or save a bit by buying the downloadable version, if you have the ability to print it yourself.
banta Releases Revised Building & Structures Kit by banta modelworks
banta model works releases a redesigned Building & Structure kit of the Ophir, Colorado saloon. The finished model's footprint is 11" by 6-1/2".
Wall Detailing Parts by ITLA Scale Models
ITLA Scale Models re-enters the S-scale market (they used to carry tall S-scale skyscrapers and radio towers), with a detailing set. The figure shown in the photo is not included, but it is an O-scale figure, so that should provide some reference for the size of the parts, and it appears that they would indeed be usable in S-scale. See their web site for a complete listing of what is included, and ideas for how to assemble some of the parts.
Cheat Run Trestle by B.T.S.
B.T.S. is working on a kit for an O-scale version of an extended version of their "Cheat Run Trestle". The original was a scale 27' long, but this extended version, called the "Estuary Trestle" is 90' long (same width and height). Contact B.T.S. if you are interested in seeing an S-scale version of this kit, with a retail price estimated at around $100.
More Kits Being Re-run by Ragg's... to Riches?
Ragg's To Riches is re-running the Mancos Depot kit in S-scale, if you are interested.
