36506 Sherwood Livonia, Michigan 48154
The fifth annual North American Model Engineering Exposition was
held April 23 and 24, 1994, at Yack Arena in Wyandotte, Michigan.
This outstanding and unique two-day event attracted exhibitors,
model enthusiasts, and vendors from virtually all around the world.
The mere fact that more than 3,400 spectators attended the two-day
Expo is only a small indication of the real success of this affair.
The real winner at this Model Engineering Exposition was the model
engineering craft itself! From any perspective quality of models,
variety of engines, machinery, tractors, boats, aircraft, railway
equipment, the spirit of the vendors and exhibitors this was a
totally outstanding exposition! More exhibitor and vendor space was
made available. An additional 200-plus feet of air pipe was added
to provide the necessary air to operate the expanded number of
steam models that were displayed. The added pipe gave the
exhibitors 875 feet of compressed air pipe to operate their models.
In addition to the general public experiencing many of the more
than 900 models actually running on compressed air or gasoline,
they could also obtain valuable information about the model from
the person who built it. This interaction is a major key to
promoting the model engineering craft. Many of the 250 exhibitors
will tell you that it is always a pleasure to visit with people who
want to know about something they built and who appreciate the fine
craftsmanship involved.
On display were steam engines, including marine, tractor,
industrial and locomotive. The gas engines exhibited were scale
models of antique farm engines, automotive, aircraft and marine.
Several hot air engines were running and attracted a lot of
attention. Several scale model aircraft engines were running
including radial and inline models. Many of the models were
operating scale machines and other equipment. Scale model lathes
and other machine tools also delighted the general public.
Model aircraft were well represented with 160 models on display
and with many different types available for viewing. For the model
boat enthusiast a large boat pond was the center of attention with
more than 60 boats on display. Radio controlled boats that used the
pond included tug boats, ferry and military boats, and of course
side paddle boats. More than 15 museum quality locomotives thrilled
the train buffs.
More than 50 outstanding vendors were on hand to supply
information, model kits, tools, machines, books, and magazines that
support and advance the model engineering craft.
This year’s Exposition was larger in every aspect than last
year’s, and once again demonstrated the scope of the craft and
the interest that the model builder, vendor and general public have
in model engineering.
The North American Model Engineering Society would again like to
thank everyone involved with the 1994 Exposition for making it an
outstanding show. We are looking forward to seeing everyone again
next year.
