Overview of the N.C.N.G. model railroad layout
About Us

Preserving Railroad History Since 1986

The N.C.N.G. Historical Model Railroad is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to preserving the memory of the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Our Mission

Keeping History Alive

Our mission is to educate the public about the historic Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad through our meticulously crafted On3 scale model railroad. The original N.C.N.G. railroad operated from 1875 to 1942, serving the gold mining communities of Nevada City, Grass Valley, and connecting them to the transcontinental railroad at Colfax.

Through accurate modeling of the locomotives, rolling stock, structures, and scenery, we bring this important piece of California history to life for new generations.

Grass Valley model scene on the layout
Our History

A Timeline of Preservation

1875

Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad begins operations, connecting Colfax to Nevada City and Grass Valley

1942

Last train runs; railroad ceases operations after 67 years of service

1986

NCNG Historical Model Railroad founded as the "N.C.N.G. Project"

1990s

Layout construction begins at Nevada County Fairgrounds

Today

Volunteer team continues to expand and improve the On3 scale layout

The Layout

On3 Scale Precision

What is On3?

"On3" refers to O scale (1:48 ratio) with 3-foot narrow gauge track. This scale accurately represents the narrow gauge equipment used by the original N.C.N.G. railroad.

Features

  • DCC digital control system
  • Historically accurate locomotives
  • Period-correct rolling stock
  • "Train Cam TV" on-board cameras
  • Detailed scenery and structures
Detailed train model on the N.C.N.G. layout
Close-up of a model train on the N.C.N.G. layout with detailed scenery Engine #8 in the yard

Towns & Scenes

The layout recreates the three major towns along the original line:

Nevada City

Northern terminus of the line

Grass Valley

Heart of the mining district

Colfax

Connection to SP mainline

Plus scenic highlights like the Bear River Bridge and gold mining operations.

Engine #8 with freight cars

501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization

The N.C.N.G. Historical Model Railroad is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Your donations are tax-deductible.

Note: We are a separate nonprofit organization not affiliated with other museums or groups.

Support Our Mission Join Our Team
Location

Visit Us

Nevada County Fairgrounds
Grass Valley, California

Open during major fairground events, special open houses, and by special arrangement.

View Events
Contact

Get in Touch

For inquiries about visiting, volunteering, or group tours, please contact us:

ncngrr@hotmail.com