Wohltorf – A FREMO track module with a bridge

This module continues to be used at FREMO events, but it has been transferred to a new owner.

The Prototype and the Model

The prototype for this module is located on the double-track main line between Hamburg and Berlin and is a brick bridge over the River Bille at Wohltorf. The bridge and the section of the river are reproduced in the module true to the prototype. All other elements of the module (villa, railway crossing) are purely fictional.

I built the module in the late 1990s/early 2000s as a FREMO fiNe-scale (N gauge) model. Later, I replaced the railway barrier with one that was scale-accurate, produced using photo-etching techniques, and manually operated via a crank mechanism.

In the early 2000s, I unfortunately had no time at all for my hobbies and in 2008, I decided to hand the layout over to Wim, who has lovingly looked after it ever since and regularly brings it to FREMO meetings. I am very grateful to Wim for that!

Modulkasten.pdf In-depth feature on building the Wohltorf module baseboard (german only).

Impressions

At the time, I used photo-etching techniques extensively. Look at the fine details: railings, fences, antennas, and even the crossing keeper’s bicycle leaning against his hut. The brick walls of the bridge and the cobbled street were also etched and then used as masters for casting.

Click to zoom!

The Real-Life Prototype

During the construction phase

Unfortunately, I only have a few photos from the construction phase, and none showing the entire model.