Milwaukee Road Beer Line: Layout Tour and Overview

[@rimodeler7963]

Bravo, John! It's great to see an overview of your very nice model railroad. Your attention to detail is remarkable and you've created a fantastic switching layout. Thank you for the tour! Mike

[@beerlinemodeler]

Hey Mike! Thanks for watching and the comments! I always look forward to your postings as well, best thing to enjoy on my lunch break at work!

[@michaelwise6410]

Love the red 1963 Thunderbird.

[@beerlinemodeler]

I think it’s an Oxford Models.

[@JoeyBPhotography]

The layout looks great, and also looks like it would be fun to operate as well! Thanks for sharing!

[@TravelinginMiniature]

Very inspiring layout. I like how you used Sanborn maps.

[@edwardberwind8544]

Your detail is outstanding it looks like real life with all the figures.

[@garyvs.carsmore4607]

This is a wonderful layout. So well thought out. Realistically done. One of the best I have seen!

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you Gary!

[@sunnysiderails397]

Awesome layout and room, really cool!!! -Ken

[@SantaFeBob]

Excellent layout design and details. It makes you feel like you are in Wisconsin on the Beer Line. Thank you for sharing.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you for watching Bob!

[@jmannelson8206]

Very nice work. Just enough detail to make it look detailed.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you Jman!

[@sunnysiderails397]

Love the beer holders that pop out on the layout!!!

[@step2191]

Thank you for the video tour. Very neatly displayed, well thought out. And love the beverage holder and bottle opener. I need to get a mini fridge going in my layout room! Can't wait to see future endeavors.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you for watching! I admit I never thought I’d go 8 years with a shelf layout. But I still find lots of enjoyment with it.

[@irishhandyman2009]

You brought a huge smile to an old Hoosier. Grew up literally a stones throw from the Milwaukee Road RR line. I was named after my Uncle who worked for MRR for 40 yrs. Miss those black and orange beauties. Your video made my day.

[@beerlinemodeler]

That’s one of the best compliments one could ever receive in this hobby.

[@HVACSoldier]

You definitely have excellent skills.

[@richardsobieck9660]

You have a beautiful layout. You have done a great job of detailing your scenes. Thanks for sharing.

[@peteshoulders1]

excellent planning and design gone into that super looking job cheers for the tour

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks!

[@thecnwmondovilinepaulscota7304]

Thanks for the layout tour! Glad to see the overview of the entire layout, Used to live nearby and worked in an office in the Schlitz "C" House, which is now part of an office park.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks!

[@robertlewis7237]

THANK YOU FOR GREAT SUPER DETAILED VIDEO ON BEAUTY FULL DETAILED LAYOUT THANK FOR SHARING OTHER RAIL LOVE FROM AUSTRALIA

[@ernsta.vahlbruch6191]

Lovely video. Your passion for the hobby shows through start to finish. Love your humorous touches! As an old fart just getting into it, I can appreciate from you attention to details how much of my time it is going to chew up for the foreseeable future. Cheers from the wet coast of Canada.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you Ernst!

[@emrrcmember6257]

I caught this video in the NMRA turntable. I had the awesome opportunity to see this layout in person during the Indy Junction NMRA convention, and let me tell you, this setup is quite amazing. I toured many layouts that week, probably close to 2 dozen, and this was in my top 2. The level of finish on the layout, the details are just amazing. The point to point nature is also something that really adds to a layout in my opinion. When I was a child I remember my father talking to me about building a layout (which we still talk about decades later, it just hasn't happened yet), and he would talk about point to point layouts which would get an eye roll from young me, because I (along with my friends) wanted to see the trains go around and around. Back then I thought "what is the fun of something that just goes back and forth", and I really understand it now. This also really opened my eyes to the world of shelf modeling, realizing that I can (maybe one day) utilize space in my asement to set up something similar. Thank you for sharing your layout and doing this video, it really left a mark on me. Also, don't undersell yourself, you are an EXCELLENT modeler!

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you so much for the kind comments! I'm glad you could come visit during Indy Junction. I too can remember at a much younger age rolling my eyes as well when hearing about point to point layouts. Shelf layout modeling has taught me that not only can one have a satisfying layout in limited space, but also you learn to appreciate quality over size. I will build one more version of the Beer Line in about 5 or so years (hopefully in a new home with a basement). Even then it will be limited in size and scope. At that point I'll be in my early 50s. I want some time to enjoy the fruits of my labors! Again, thank you so much!

[@jeffreyrule8143]

Thanks for the Beer Line tour. I have been to Mader’s German restaurant in Milwaukee in the early 80’s. Still think I have beer mug from them. I also model the Road, since my uncle was an engineer on a short line, probably in SW Wisconsin. Happy rails and pints.

[@garyjlandeck]

Your layout looks great! I really like that you've built so many structures and places based on maps and other historical info. Thank you for sharing it!

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you!

[@matthewwilliams9098]

Amazing layout just amazing incredible work 😮

[@russellpoland6637]

I enjoyed the tour of Your layout. Your scratch building skills are to be applauded Sir! I used to model railroad back in the day, I do not have the room for it now. Thank You for sharing with Us here. Hmmmm, not sure why, but, I am feeling very thirsty right now, excuse me, I have to get a beer.

[@jpace121]

You are way too humble. This is an amazing layout.

[@russgoodwin7560]

Excellent modelling, and yes, Mader's was / is an actual restaurant in Milwaukee.

[@jwrailve3615]

I really like that line with all the litter and debris inbetween the tall plant structure and brick building with rail bays. I’m a nut about inter urban and large industrial switching especially layouts based on them. I’m from down south so I don’t know much about the Milwaukee but pretty cool setup you got a sub!

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks and welcome aboard!

[@dekon70]

Outstanding work! The details are incredible!

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you very much!

[@michaelsmodelrailroading7665]

Those little details -- clutter, junk and debris -- really make your scenes pop with authenticity! What a GREAT little layout! Thanks for the guided tour.

[@ryanfields5181]

A nice layout

[@Vaderd2k926]

Marvelous use of available space. Wonderful intricacies in the track plan with lots of nooks and crannies. Real world use of lift out bridges to get to the windows and important looking black boxes on the facia which turn out to be beer can holders are both whimsical and practical. Amazing layout. I hope to see some trains in action. Switching must be great fun on the beer line. True artistry. Kudos.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you for the kind comments! And yes, it is enjoyable to run. Has been for 8 years now.

[@seanpacificrailroad3700]

Wow wow wow amazing layout👍 awesome video thanks for sharing 👍😃

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you Sean!

[@seanpacificrailroad3700]

@@beerlinemodeler your welcome 😃

[@frankkie3849]

Nice layout, thanks for showing us.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks!

[@Jasonstreamline]

Absolutely amazing!!!! The attention to detail is phenomenal. Great job

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you!

[@WigWagWorkshop]

Thanks for the layout tour, new subscriber. I grew up in The City of South Milwaukee

[@beerlinemodeler]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@FloodManagementGroup]

It's great. Nice work

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you!

[@larrybjurstrom5455]

Wonderful review of your beer line. Remember the old addge..A child's toys and and an old man's reason, are the products of two seasons?. Just got back into Ho after a long hiatus, including a brain injury. Decided on Soo/M ilw. Rd Built a Blatz Brewery, etc., etc. Grew up in Rockford I'll. IC & MR. Nice talking with y'all!!

[@georgiasunbelt]

Very nicely detailed layout…enjoyed the tour

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks!

[@conecuhvalleyttrak]

Nice layout. Thanks for the tour!

[@robertweldon7909]

10/5/2022 It is nice to see a mostly complete layout. I know, it's never really done (super detail work to be done). Also its nice to see a point to point switching layout that appears to be quite busy, when operations happen, and has a theme and prototype to boot. Nice job, well thought out and executed. Maybe a bit of expansion is in the future? Sit back and tip a cold one, you earned it ;-)

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks! And yes I always tip a cold one!🍻

[@mitchwinder1204]

Nicely done. I seem to remember this layout, or one similar, in MR several years ago.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks Mitch! MR did the Beer Line as a project layout many years ago. It was an influence on waht part to model.

[@jimjohnston7688]

Very, very nice.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you!

[@chrishedrick6433]

Awesome layout you did a great job on the detailing and love the buildings in the whole layout keep up the good work

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks!

[@brettany_renee_blatchley]

Very lovely, and some great ideas for my layout! 😌💜

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you!

[@robertblackwelder8201]

Great modeling!

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks!

[@iggybeauchance7406]

A wonderful layout well worthy of perhaps professional photography...

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you sir!

[@frankstrains]

Love your videos.......great job

[@alfrednawrocki8061]

Beautiful layout!!!

[@ClearTrackSpeed]

What a unique layout, thanks for sharing

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks!

[@majik2465]

Nicely done! Love all the details and I'm sure the layout can keep several crews busy with switching moves during operating sessions.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks! The layout really isn’t that large. Three operators is about perfect. It’s also very enjoyable when operating solo.

[@WigWagWorkshop]

The building at 4:56 is actually a Bar Mills kit called Saulena’s Tavern

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you, I couldn't remember the name of it. I know it was named after another modeler.

[@wayneshawkins6557]

Great line.

[@bobainsworth5057]

Beautiful layout. Looks like fun to operate. Thanks for your.

[@bobainsworth5057]

Sorry, tour.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Perfusionist01]

Very nice. The elevators are quite impressive! I recently learned about how tall real elevators are. I ordered a custom 3D printed version of my hometown grain elevator and it TOWERS over the Walthers products that I already have. Walthers' silos are only about 65 ft tall. Your elevators are really impressive pieces.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks! I consulted Sanborn fire maps for most of the dimensions. First time I had ever used them.

[@mikeberthold1593]

Very neat layout I have worked for a printing company for over three decades and yes paper can be very very heavy

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks! I was told by a former MILW employee that the paper rolls would crush a skid.

[@JamesSmith-nn5df]

You have amazing layout I follow you on Facebook you are correct on the paper I used to drive box truck and they load paper rolls directly on the floor

[@stephensaasen8589]

Very nice layout. I plan to model the Milwaukee Road in Washington state. I grew up on the Chehalis Sub south of Tacoma and got to see alot of interesting action, including the log trains. Glad you received your Lines West Products when you did. I've been waiting almost 2 years for mine. Unfortunately, Lines West is a one man operation and he had alot of setbacks with supply issues and then over 6 months of serious health issues. He's been up and running since May but struggling to keep up. I really do hope he's doing better. Seeing your switch stands gives me an idea of what I'll be receiving before long. Looking forward to more videos.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks Stephen! I got my hoppers and a couple other things back in June that I ordered in September of 2021.

[@stephensaasen8589]

@@beerlinemodeler that's encouraging. I have a "Twinkie" RS3 slug on order with my stands. The holdup is actually the red and white chevron targets for the switch stands. I don't think he's received them yet from the UK. When I look at my order status online, the switch stands are the only things not highlighted in the list to indicate that portion of the order is completed.

[@dtw425]

Excellent tour of a great layout. Nice capture of the ambiance of the time and place. Grew up in Milwaukee and rode the trackless trolley up Third St. (now MLK Dr.) past the beer line from Lincoln Warehouse to the Pabst Shipping Center in the early 50's. Later worked at Pabst, just 1/2 mile up the hill from the line. Maders is a Milwaukee restaurant just south of Lincoln Warehouse. Newspaper rolls were for the "Journal-Sentinel" (merger of morning and evening newspaper) and papers were heavy. Sunday edition for the 95 customers on my paper route must have weighted 150 pounds. Like the use of Sanborn Maps.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you very much!

[@lancemichaletz7248]

I am really happy to find your video , I was raised in Oak Creek, remember being a kid, climbing up on gondolas, must have been parked on siding, from downtown slaughter house, full with pig skin, maybe Patrick Cudahy?, not sure, the brewery layout is over the top. Nice job!!

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks Lance!

[@WigWagWorkshop]

South Milwaukee, Whitefish Bay, nothing stinks like Cudahy 😂

[@johnschultz9023]

Carrollville , on the Chicago & North Western

[@zozocreek8327]

Amazing ❤

[@michaelrogalla9620]

Outstanding John

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks!

[@wiliamcamarda2471]

Top , parabéns, bela maquete .

[@oldcitybricks9153]

Fantastic!

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks!

[@eprohoda]

Super-reaally good .catch you later,👽

[@mercury7590]

Fantastic layout! It’s stuff like this that makes me want a layout of my own when I get older. Do you know why Fairbanks-Morse switchers were so prominent on the Beer Line?

[@beerlinemodeler]

It's my understanding that they had excellent pulling power while negotiating sharp curves. You factor in the grade on the roller coaster, as well as the grade when coming north off the south end of the line.

[@bartjvonk]

This looks like blast to operate! For those interested in the original beer line, some folks remade it in virtual 3D based on the exact prototype track plan. A lot of this layout is also pointed out there. Really gives it some context! Thanks for the tour. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oHOuZKmPo9iYqNU

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you Bart! And yes, it’s a lot of fun to operate! Especially with a cold one in hand!

[@TheOriginalBadger]

Nice.

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thanks!

[@gregcochenet7893]

Great layout! I love all the details you have included. What type of adhesive did you use to attach the styrene to the foamcore? Thanks!

[@beerlinemodeler]

I used Walthers Goo. I think I’d use it again, but spread it more.

[@JasonTrew2018]

Is there a link to get those throttles, otherwise that is an awesome railroad you've built and updated

[@beerlinemodeler]

I don’t have a link, I didn’t think to add one. Here: sooparts.tech/ And thanks!

[@sawyerpac9878]

Yea Hi I'm Jerry from Santa Cruz ca.and what do you uesd for scenery? And how do you do it?

[@sawyerpac9878]

Hi were did you bug your ho cars and trucks?

[@caseyvillemodelrailroad3877]

Wounderfull layout, hauling beer is an art... stop by and check out my forth video of beer hauling. Thanks...

[@beerlinemodeler]

Thank you!

[@martinquinn1768]

Nice! but rule G doesn't apply? LOL!

[@beerlinemodeler]

No, it never does. Lol…

[@johnschultz9023]

Hi Are you in Milwaukee?

[@randysrockandrollrailroad8207]

😊

[@sawyerpac9878]

I mean hobos in between your building.

[@JIm1960Mooney]

All your "Blair line kits" are actually Bar Mills kits....

[@beerlinemodeler]

Yea you’re right. I get them confused.

[@sawyerpac9878]

Hi again you need more weeds & nobody's between your buildings

[@raygallagherjr8851]

Nice.