Will Huffman-Toy Train Expo Founder |
The Toy Train Expo is “the area’s premier family event and a fun time for all.” It is sure to excite and entertain no matter what your age.
The Expo showcases a large variety of unique operating train layouts, displayed
by local model train enthusiasts, for the public’s enjoyment. It is named in
memory of its late founder, Will Huffman, a retired 4th grade
schoolteacher.
With “dozens upon dozens of smoke belching, whistle blowing locomotives pulling
assorted and colorful freight and passenger cars,” the Expo is a celebration
“of the magic and nostalgia of toy trains.” Will liked to say, “the trains will
boggle the mind and excite the eyes” of everyone attending.The Toy Train Expo is held in conjunction with Preservation Williamsport’s Victorian Christmas weekend. The Expo features dozens of working train layouts, in all scales and size. While most of the layouts are “for viewing only”, a specific area is set up for kids to try their hand at the popular locomotive races or play with a wooden Thomas set.
Santa Claus can be found strolling through Park Place along with Conductor Eric making his rounds. Unlike many train shows, there are no sales tables. The sights, sounds, and smells of all things trains are a delight to the senses. It is “the land of smiles, wide eyes, and half open mouths of children.”
Since Will’s passing in 2011 at the age of 81, the Toy Train Expo has continued under his sons, Eric and Bruce, along with “trainloads of help” from numerous dedicated exhibitors, volunteers, donors, sponsors, and the support of the community. We are proud to continue Will’s vision of “a gift for the community for children of all ages.”
The Huffman Family welcomes you and your family to this wonderful event, a chance to “relive a less complicated world of wonder and nostalgia.” Children are admitted free and adults for $3 donation.
Read an article that appeared in the Williamsport Sun-Gazette.