Train fans swap rolling stock, rail tales at SEL

Model railroad enthusiasts of all ages checked over the trade tables at the Palouse Empire Rail Society’s 14th annual Show and Swap meet Sunday.

The event this year was moved from the Beasley Coliseum concourse to the Schweitzer Events Center.

Approximately 685 railroad fans, including 185 youngsters who were allowed free admission, took part. Trading railroad items and tales continued while a slide show of historic rail scenes were projected on the big screen in the center’s main room.

One of the star attractions was the Union Pacific “Big Boy” model, which was part of the Inland Empire S Gaugers Association exhibit.

The Big Boy engines, largest ever built, featured two eight-wheel sets of drive wheels.