The Carbon Model Railroad Society, located at 529 Ore Street in Bowmanstown, is holding its annual Christmas in July Open House from 7 to 9 p.m. today, as well as from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

During the weekend hours, Santa is even scheduled to visit. Admission to the event is free.

The society is located inside a repurposed church in Bowmanstown, that has been modified to include a full lower-level display depicting neighborhoods representative of the surrounding area.

Upstairs visitors will find another operational display, as well as new and pre-owned trains and accessories for sale.

The Society’s traveling display, the Caboose, is set up for viewing in the backyard.

The clubhouse was purchased in 2002 and funds received through the sale of model railroad cars and accessories have paid for the expenses to keep it operational and to fund the needed renovations to fit the society’s needs.

Garry Mack, who serves as president of the society, was kind enough to conduct a personal tour of the facility.

Mack is not only a lifelong train enthusiast, but also a wealth of knowledge on local history. Mack worked 46 years for the New Jersey Zinc Co. in Palmerton and is well versed in the history of the surrounding communities.

“Many of our volunteers have spent a lot of time designing and building our displays. We love to open our building so we can share them with the community,” said Mack.

The volunteers at the church are clearly passionate about their displays. It sometimes takes up to 2 years to complete a small section of the display. The attention to detail is impressive and includes many recognizable local attractions. Another fun characteristic that became evident in talking with the volunteers is that often the buildings are named after those volunteers who have worked on the displays, depicting their professions.

The society opens its doors twice a year for an open house and sponsors spring and fall train meets in Walnutport.

Anyone who would like further information on becoming a member or have general questions regarding model railroading, visit the clubhouse, follow their Facebook page, contact Garry Mack by email at mackgjjt@ptd.net, or call 610-826-6636.