A Hobo's Journey: Modeling America's Railroads

"Oh, To Be a Kid Again," the 2010 program series co-sponsored by the Claremont Historical Society and the Friends of the Fiske Free Library, continues on Wednesday May 19. Model train enthusiast Steve Dalessio will present “A Hobo’s Journey : Modeling America’s Railroads” an illustrated talk about the history of American railroads and how model trains mimic that history.

Dalessio has been involved in manufacturing since he was 16, when he apprenticed as a tool maker, later becoming Director of Manufacturing and Engineering for a medical device company. His enthusiasm for manufacturing eventually led him to model railroading.

For more than 15 years Dalessio has been involved in building and developing model railroads of all scales. He has been instrumental in starting several model railroad groups, including a new group in Claremont. In 1998, he started Tech-Link, a small home based business that provides technical support, manufacturing and sales to various levels of hobbyists.

Dalessio and his wife Susan live in Walpole, NH where he is involved with the local planning board. Josie, a rough collie stands guard over his collection of model trains and other "stuff".

The third program in the series will take place on Tuesday, June 29 when Lydia Brooks Raymond, doll doctor from Kennebunkport, Maine, will present “Antique Dolls: History, Care & Restoration.” Audience members are encouraged to bring their favorite doll along with them.

The programs will be held at 7pm at the Trinity Episcopal Parish Hall, 120 Broad Street, Claremont, New Hampshire and are free and open to the public. Their content is appropriate for ages 10 to adult. Additional funding for the series is being provided by the Sullivan Lodge, No. 12, I.O.O.F. and Common Man Inn & Restaurant. For more information contact the library at 603-542-7017