Wohltorf – A FREMO track module with a bridge

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.

Sound On! Realistic Level Crossing Action at Wohltorf

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

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 Mol. He has looked after it so lovingly and reliably ever since, bringing it to every FREMO meeting. It means a lot to me and I am deeply grateful to him. I couldn’t have wished for a better new owner than Wim.

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

Etching Parts

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. Today, we have also 3D printing and laser cutting as complements to photo etching.

Aetztechnik_Mini-Howto.pdf I still have a mini how-to guide from back then on photo-etching techniques. (german only).