Model train exhibit celebrates 19th anniversary
An idyllic Christmas scene is that of a living room containing a glimmering, fully decorated evergreen tree with a model train chugging around its base. It was on just such a pleasant memory that the Hayes Presidential Center created its Hayes Train Special holiday train exhibit. Now in its 19th year, the Hayes Train Special will be on display Nov. 23, 2012 through Sunday, January 6, 2013. The exhibit is made possible through the generosity of the Gordon W. Knight Family, with additional funding from Memorial Hospital .
Eight model trains are part of the elaborate 12x24-foot, three-tiered layout. Visitors are given control of aspects of the trains’ movements via a series of buttons. Young and old train enthusiasts delight at sounding the train whistle and raising the crossing gates. The trains follow a complex course through tunnels and around a snow-blanketed miniature Victorian village that includes ice skaters, a town hall and fireworks. Also part of the display is an exhibition of the snowflake art of Mary Gaynier of Toledo.
Admission to the Hayes Train Special is included in the Hayes Museum ticket price of $7.50/adult, $6.50/seniors age 60+, and $3/children ages 6-12. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays and noon-5 p.m. Sundays. The exhibit is closed Mondays, Christmas and New Year’s Day.