Cuyahoga Valley and West Shore Model Railroad Club Information
Located in Olmstead Falls, Ohio, USA
The Cuyahoga Valley and West Shore Model Railroad Club was started in 1953 in Rocky River, Ohio in the basement of the Rocky River Hotel. The club operated a large HO scale layout at that location. The club continued to grow and stayed at that location until they were forced to relocate in 1975. Almost 2 years passed before the club was relocated to the depot in Olmsted Falls. In late 1976, the club was able to lease the Olmsted Falls depot from the newly formed Conrail railroad. The club continued to grow and thrive at this location for many years. Over the next 20 years, the club continued to restore and remodel the depot. An original Pennsylvania N5-C caboose was secured from the railroad and placed on the east end of the station.
In 1996, again the club had to worry about being displaced from a building. Prior to the breakup of Conrail, the railroad placed all unutilized assets on the auction block; the depot was on this list. The club approached the railroad, and was able to keep the building from auction. In 1996, the club was able to purchase the depot and adjacent property from the railroad ensuring the survival of the organization for the future. This purchase was made possible by many members and the "500" club that donated to the cause. Today, the CV&WS enjoys a great location next to the Norfolk Southern mainline in the historic district of Olmsted Falls.