Updated 02-08-11. The 18th International Small Scale Steamup, Diamondhead 2011, was again held at the Diamond Resort in Diamondhead, Mississippi between January 16-22, 2011. There were 168 attendees from 33 states and 4 international locations (Canada, Great Britain, Trinidad, and Peru). Some traveled by air, others by car, and I kept the faith and traveled by rail.
Our host, Jerry Reshew initiated the steamups back in 1993. Other than 2006 when the aftermath of Hurricane Karina spoiled the show, Diamondhead has been a constant and welcoming respite from our everyday lives. This winter weekend event has now grown to a full week with 24 hour a day track time. There were three separate elevated dual track layouts, with steaming bays, that accommodated both 45mm and 32mm locomotives and rolling stock. At the center of each layout and along the perimeters were areas for viewing, tables for servicing, display areas, and fellowship.
Special events included a seminar by Yves Guillaume “An introduction To Coal Firing a Gauge 1 Locomotive”, the Steam Flea Market, a concert by the Clack Valves and Cornets Steam Band, the Drawbar Pull, Sonny Wizelman’s Shay-up, Mamod Fever, Wind-Up locos, the Exhibit Hall, Friday’s catered lunch, and Saturday Night Movies “Murder On The Orient Express” and “Our Hospitality” with Buster Keaton.
One cannot talk about the Gulf Coast without mentioning their world famous cuisine. Evening meals at the Jourdan River Steamer, Trapanis, Pier House restaurant, lunch at the Shed, and breakfast at the Waffle House were memorable occasions.
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