Winchester is a pretty small town compared to Chicago (what isn't?) and I've heard people from my office complain about how small it is and how little there is to do around here. There aren't nearly as many activities here as there are in some cities, but if you're willing to venture off of the beaten path you never know exactly what you'll find.
Last fall I was here when a peculiar situation arose. I needed to find some unusual parts that I figured I could get at a hobby shop. So I hit the phone directories and found a place called "Cain's Trains and Hobbies." After a phone call and a few minutes drive off of the highway I found this little shop.
I figured I was in for a treat when I saw this Plymouth switcher sitting next to the shop. Apparently the proprietor also works in construction and trucking, so he was well equipped to haul off this narrow gauge gas mechanical locomotive when a local industry wanted rid of it.
Inside there was a surprisingly good selection of merchandise from various scales as well as some miscellaneous parts for kit bashing, and of course the brass parts that I needed for work.
The service was great too and I really liked the little touches like the overhead tracks and the little Z scale model by the door.
And if you're not into trains there are plenty of antique shops if you take the time to look. They range from the outrageously up scale to the very rustic.
There is some terrific scenery that you can enjoy, especially if you get a chance to ride one of the area's scenic railways. (You knew I would get back around to trains eventually!)
That's all for now. More later on my travels and maybe a bit of old iron.
