Harmony Ridge Railroad Club Spreads Holiday Cheer at Cross Keys Village
Don Parrish, chair of the Harmony Ridge Railroad Club, points out details on the club’s “H-O” scale layout to 10-year-old Cooper Henry during one of their annual open house events at Harmony Ridge Community Center at Cross Keys Village – The Brethren Home Community. (Photo taken by Liz Caples/Gettysburg Times)
Throughout the month of December, the Harmony Ridge Railroad Club (HRRC) at Cross Keys Village – The Brethren Home Community has been hard at work welcoming visitors to its annual holiday open house. This beloved tradition invites residents and community members alike to experience the magic of model railroading during the festive season.
Founded more than a decade ago, HRRC is made up of 29 Cross Keys Village residents who share a passion for trains. Club members bring a wide range of skills to the group, from landscape design to electrical work, all of which contribute to the intricate and immersive layouts on display. Nearly all the work is completed by the members themselves, with assistance from the Cross Keys Village maintenance department only when specialized electrical needs arise.
The open house showcases the club’s impressive train room, which features three permanent layouts in “O,” “H-O”, and “N” scales. Each layout winds through detailed scenes of mountains, farms, small towns, and even a nostalgic drive-in movie theater. One especially meaningful feature can be found on the main “H-O”-scale layout. HRRC Chair Don Parrish recreated his parents’ dairy farm in New Freedom, where he grew up, adding a deeply personal touch to the display.
Janice Swartz, director of strategic communications and brand management at Cross Keys village, and her 10-year-old son, John Swartz, watch model trains wind through miniature towns and countryside during the Harmony Ridge Railroad Club’s holiday open house at Cross Keys Village’s Harmony Ridge Community Center. (Photo taken by Liz Caples/Gettysburg Times)
Visitors will also discover unique details such as genuine Pennsylvania coal used in the subterranean coal mine scene. With countless tiny details and hidden surprises throughout the room, guests can easily spend over an hour exploring and spotting new treasures.
HRRC welcomes residents and community members to visit the train room throughout the year. The club is self-funded through membership dues and accepts donations. Those interested in learning more, scheduling a visit, or donating trains, accessories, or financial support may call 717-624-5411.