B&O Station

In Memoriam: Fred Schirrmacher, Builder of Model Railroad Display

Fred Schirmmacher
Credit: Leah L. Jones, Gazette Photographer
Fred Schirmmacher at the B&O Station
Credit: John Sery

“Mr. Fred [Schirrmacher] says, ‘It’s designed to make children smile; that’s what it’s for.’ A model railroad display constructed by the former Silver Spring Model Railroad Society made its grand debut returning in 2011 to its hometown roughly 20 years after its creation. Display features miniature people, tunnels, bridges, mountains, a haunted house, and tiny trains that chug around the clover-loop track. Model was built originally for a 1989 holiday showcase at National Geographic’s Exhibitors’ Hall, then resided at the Gaithersburg Community Museum for 17 years, then headed on to our SS B&O RR Station!”
Article by Jeannete Der Bedrosian, Gazette Staff Reporter, March 2011

In fond memory of Fred Schirrmacher 1941 – 2023

Read his obituary.

Silver Spring B&O Station

The historic train station is a beloved historic landmark and a community resource. After a disastrous car accident that severely damaged the station’s main facade in 1997, MPI rescued the station and, with assistance from private and public sources, restored it to its 1945 appearance. Today this museum of 20th century rail history regularly welcomes visitors, meetings, celebrations, and the general public.

The station is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, is designated on the Montgomery County Master Plan for Historic Preservation, and is protected by an easement held by the Maryland Historical Trust. Visit the Silver Spring B&O Railroad Station tab for more detailed information about station history, open houses, and rentals.

B&O Restoration in Progress

MPI is restoring 10 windows at the Silver Spring Station. Work by Oak Grove Restoration Co. includes removal, stripping, replacement of damaged wood, painting, and reinstallation. The Maryland Historical Trust holds exterior and interior easements on the station property.

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