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For the Magic Valley Model Railroaders, trains are about more than tracks, locomotives and miniature towns. They're about bringing generations together, preserving history and creating memories that last a lifetime.

Located at the Twin Falls County Fairgrounds, the Magic Valley Model Railroaders have spent decades sharing their passion for model railroading with the community. With support from the First Federal Bank Foundation, the organization continues to improve its displays and create a welcoming experience for visitors of all ages.

A Small World With a Big Impact

The Magic Valley Model Railroaders began in the early 1980s when a group of local train enthusiasts gathered at one another's homes to operate model trains. Eventually, an invitation from the fairgrounds brought their hobby to a larger audience.

Today, the organization operates year-round from a dedicated building at the fairgrounds, where members maintain detailed layouts featuring miniature buildings, landscapes, railroad tracks and working trains.

Marvin Barnes, a longtime member of the Magic Valley Model Railroaders, has served as the organization's president, vice president and treasurer. He also helps maintain the electrical wiring, lighting and other technical elements that keep the trains running.

For Barnes, one of the most rewarding parts of the organization is watching visitors connect with the displays.

During this year's fair, approximately 8,000 people visited the exhibit, many sharing stories of trains they remembered from childhood.

"Our mission is for us to enjoy railroading, but at the same time, the people of Twin Falls, the Magic Valley even ... they come in, and they create memories, but they also get to live some of their old memories they've had," Barnes said.

Connecting Generations Through Railroading

While the detailed displays are impressive, Barnes believes the organization's greatest impact comes from bringing families together.

Visitors can explore miniature communities, learn about railroad history and even have opportunities to operate trains themselves.

Barnes recalls one particularly meaningful experience when an elderly gentleman donated a model train he had owned as a child. When the organization got the train running again, the man and his wife watched with tears in their eyes.

For Barnes, moments like these demonstrate how something as simple as a model train can reconnect people with meaningful memories.

The displays also introduce younger generations to the history and mechanics of railroading, from steam locomotives and water towers to modern diesel-electric engines.

Whether it's a parent sharing childhood memories or a child discovering model trains for the first time, the organization provides an opportunity for families to spend time together away from everyday distractions.

Foundation Support That Keeps the Trains Running

Maintaining a railroad display requires more than creativity. It also takes ongoing improvements to ensure members can safely and comfortably operate the trains throughout the year.

Recently, the Magic Valley Model Railroaders received a grant from the First Federal Bank Foundation to help address extreme temperatures in their outdoor rail yard.

Although the rail yard already had a metal roof to protect the trains from rain and snow, the structure trapped heat during the summer months. The high temperatures made operating conditions uncomfortable and caused the metal tracks to expand, creating problems for the trains.

With funding from the Foundation, the organization installed insulation beneath the roof to help reduce the heat.

The improvement has made it easier for members to operate the outdoor display while helping protect the tracks from temperature-related issues.

The organization has also found a creative way to recognize First Federal's support. A model locomotive featuring First Federal Bank is now part of the collection, along with a miniature First Federal truck parked outside a theater in one of the displays.

These small details represent a meaningful partnership between the organization and the bank.

Keeping the Magic Alive for Future Generations

Looking ahead, Barnes hopes the Magic Valley Model Railroaders will continue inspiring new generations to discover the joy of model railroading.

With members contributing their time, skills and creativity, the organization continues to build an experience that offers visitors a chance to escape their daily routines and enjoy something unique.

For Barnes, that's what makes the organization special.

Whether visitors come to learn about railroad history, admire the intricate displays or simply spend an afternoon with family, the goal is for everyone to leave with a smile.

The Magic Valley Model Railroaders welcome visitors on the second Saturday of each month from noon to 3 p.m. at the Twin Falls County Fairgrounds.

Through its commitment to preserving history, encouraging creativity and connecting families, the organization demonstrates how a shared passion can make a lasting difference in a community.

At First Federal Bank, we're proud to support organizations like the Magic Valley Model Railroaders through the First Federal Bank Foundation, helping keep local traditions and meaningful experiences alive for generations to come.

Making a difference in your community? Learn more about the First Federal Bank Foundation and how to apply for a grant to support your organization. 

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