The Train Masters of Babylon (TMB), a Long Island model train club, are gearing up for their grandest open house yet, showcasing a meticulously crafted 6,500-square-foot model train display, alongside a surprising piece of television history: the original model train set from the iconic “Sopranos” episode, “Blue Comet.” This ambitious project, representing over a year of dedicated work and approximately $100,000, will be open to the public free of charge for two days, offering an immersive experience into the fascinating world of miniature railroads and intricate set design. The exhibit, housed in the basement of the Upper Room Church of Dix Hills, replaces their much smaller former space in Farmingdale.
This sprawling miniature world features multiple train lines traversing a meticulously detailed landscape. Two main lines accommodate up to three trains simultaneously, supplemented by two branch lines and a hidden subway system capable of running four trains at once. The display incorporates iconic landmarks, from the towering skyscrapers of New York City to the industrial refineries of the New Jersey Turnpike and the sweeping curves of Pennsylvania’s Horseshoe Curve. Beyond the sheer scale, the TMB’s creativity shines through the ingenious use of repurposed materials. A former member’s picnic table has been transformed into a bridge, a tuna can stands proudly as a water tower, and Lego figures add a touch of whimsy to one of the trains. This elaborate project, a testament to the members’ passion and ingenuity, required extensive planning and execution, starting with the herculean task of clearing out the new, larger space in the church basement.
The relocation to the Dix Hills church basement, nearly double the size of their previous location, marked a significant turning point for the TMB. Before the intricate landscapes and bustling trains could be installed, the club members faced the daunting task of clearing out the space, filling nine dumpsters with debris in a collective effort. Once the area was cleared, the real work began. Designing the layout and the complex electrical system required a full month of meticulous planning before any construction could commence. Since then, members have dedicated four days a week to bringing their vision to life, pouring countless hours into the project. Despite the demanding schedule, the TMB members view their work not as a chore but as a shared passion, a chance to indulge in their love of model trains while creating something truly remarkable.
While the intricate model train display serves as the centerpiece, the TMB’s open house also boasts a unique piece of television memorabilia: the actual model train setup featured in “The Sopranos.” This prop, stained with the simulated blood of Steve Schirripa’s character, Bobby Bacala, adds an unexpected layer of intrigue to the exhibit. Acquired through a trade with a New Jersey train club, which originally received the set from HBO, this piece of television history holds special significance for TMB president, Steve Scagnelli, a self-professed “Sopranos nut.” The scene’s filming in the Long Island TrainLand store further strengthens the connection between the prop and the TMB’s exhibit, making its presence a fitting tribute to both the show and the hobby.
The TMB’s acquisition of the “Sopranos” set piece is a story of dedication and a little bit of luck. Scagnelli, eager to acquire this iconic piece of memorabilia, wasted no time in securing the set, even though it bore the marks of Bobby Bacala’s demise. Some repairs were necessary, but the original “bloodstains” remain, adding to its authenticity and allure. Ironically, this piece, laden with a dark history from the show, has become a favorite among younger visitors, who enjoy interacting with its interactive features. Unaware of its significance in television history, they simply see it as a fun, engaging element of the display, while their parents might recognize its darker origins.
The TMB’s open house offers a unique blend of intricate model train displays and a touch of pop culture history. The members’ dedication, evident in the countless hours invested in crafting this expansive miniature world, promises visitors a captivating experience. From the meticulously designed landscapes to the ingeniously repurposed materials and the surprise appearance of the “Sopranos” set piece, the TMB’s exhibit celebrates the enduring appeal of model trains and the passionate community that keeps this hobby alive. More than just a display of miniature trains, the exhibition represents a shared passion, a collaborative effort, and a testament to the creativity and dedication of the Train Masters of Babylon.
