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Model and photos by Russ Kaufman

THE MODEL

This is an HO scale laser-cut micro-plywood kit, produced exclusively for the ARHS by The N Scale Architect.  (An N scale version will eventually be available as part of The N Scale Architect standard line.)  Roofing material, glazing, and architectural details are included.  The model is based on official Reading Company drawings for the "standard" wood frame four by five window tower.   The price is $50.00.

THE PROTOTYPE

The Reading Company issued plans for a 4 x 5 window standard wood frame tower in 1909, with instructions that the plans were to be expanded by adding windows as needed to house larger switch machines.  The plans on which this model was based were revised by the Reading Company in 1913.  Towers based on this or a similar design stood at

• Albertis (AF)
• Betharyes (NK)
• Birdsboro (BE)
• Glenside (YM), featured in Flags Diamonds and Statues Vol.7 No.4
• Haucks (HK)
• Klapperthal Jct (KJ)
• Lansdale (MA)
• Lebanon (JU)
• Neshaminy Falls (JG)
• Phoenixville (U)
• Shamokin (HV)

Variations of the design can possibly be kitbashed from this kit by an experienced modeler.