Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer A Historic Gem in Model Railroading
Model railroading is a hobby that intricately weaves history, engineering, and craftsmanship. One of the standout offerings in this domain is the Westerfield HO 1913 Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR) Reefer model. This model is a precise recreation of the PRR’s historic Class R7 refrigerator cars. Designed with exceptional attention to detail, it provides both hobbyists and historians with a tangible connection to early 20th-century railroading. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer, its unique design features, its operational history, and the details of the Westerfield model that make it a prized possession for enthusiasts.
The Pennsylvania Railroad and Its Class Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer
The Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR), often referred to as the “Standard Railroad of the World,” was an industry giant during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. By the 1910s, the PRR sought to modernize its rolling stock to meet the growing demands of agricultural and industrial freight. One critical need was a reliable fleet of refrigerator cars (reefers) to transport perishable goods such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meats.
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer were developed during this modernization effort. Built between 1913 and 1915, these cars played a pivotal role in addressing the logistics challenges of refrigerated transport. They were constructed using the same framing as the PRR’s X23 boxcars, providing a standardized yet innovative design that could be efficiently manufactured and maintained.
Design and Features
The Class R7 refrigerator cars featured a single-sheathed construction, a hallmark of early 20th-century engineering. This design used a steel framework to provide structural integrity, covered with wooden sheathing that was easy to replace and repair. The exterior framing was complex, employing pressed steel components that offered both durability and aesthetic appeal.
Key specifications of the R7 reefers included:
- Length: 40 feet, matching the standard freight car size of the era.
- Capacity: Designed to carry a substantial load of perishable goods.
- Refrigeration System: Ice bunkers at each end of the car allowed for efficient cooling.
- Paint Scheme: The original reefers were painted yellow with Freight Car Color fascia and sill stripes. Over time, these were updated with Freight Car Color roofs for better weather resistance.
These features made the R7 reefers a versatile and reliable choice for refrigerated transport, and their design influenced subsequent generations of rolling stock.
The Operational History of Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer
Upon their introduction, the Class R7 reefers became an integral part of the PRR’s freight operations. They were primarily used for transporting agricultural produce from rural areas to urban markets, ensuring freshness and reducing spoilage. The single-sheathed construction and efficient refrigeration system allowed the PRR to compete effectively in the perishable goods market.
Leasing to Fruit Growers Express (1922–1942)
In 1922, the PRR leased its fleet of R7 reefers to Fruit Growers Express (FGEX), a company specializing in refrigerated transport. Under FGEX management, the reefers were integrated into a nationwide network of refrigerated freight services. This lease arrangement allowed the cars to achieve a broader operational reach, serving markets across the United States.
During this period, some R7 reefers were relettered for National Car Company (NX), reflecting their expanded utility. By the 1940s, many of these cars had been retired or repurposed, but their legacy remained evident in the continued development of refrigerated rolling stock.
Later Years and Legacy
Despite their eventual obsolescence, some Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer remained in service until the mid-1960s. Their durability and innovative design ensured their longevity, and they became a symbol of early advancements in refrigerated freight. Today, these cars are celebrated for their historical significance and engineering ingenuity.
Westerfield Models: Preserving History in HO Scale
The Company
Westerfield Models is renowned for its high-quality resin kits that cater to model railroad enthusiasts. The company specializes in replicating historic rolling stock, focusing on accuracy, detail, and craftsmanship. Their HO scale models are highly sought after by collectors and hobbyists alike, and the 1913 PRR R7 reefer is no exception.
The PRR R7 Reefer Model
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer kit captures the essence of the original Class R7 cars with remarkable fidelity. From the intricate exterior framing to the subtle paint schemes, every detail is designed to mirror the prototype.
Key features of the model include:
- One-Piece Body Construction: The resin body ensures durability and simplifies assembly while maintaining accuracy.
- Etched Brass Details: Some versions of the kit include etched brass ladder sets, providing enhanced realism and precision.
- Accurate Paint Schemes: The kit offers historically accurate paint and lettering options, allowing modelers to replicate the car’s appearance during different operational periods.
- Ease of Customization: The model is compatible with standard HO scale components, enabling hobbyists to customize their builds to suit specific layouts or historical contexts.
These features make the Westerfield model both a challenge and a delight for experienced builders, offering an opportunity to create a historically accurate and visually striking piece of rolling stock.
Building and Displaying the Westerfield R7 Reefer
Assembly Tips
Building a Westerfield kit requires patience and attention to detail, as the resin components and etched brass parts demand careful handling. Here are some tips for successful assembly:
Preparation: Before starting, review the instructions thoroughly and ensure you have all necessary tools and materials, including fine brushes, adhesives, and paints.
Detailing: Use fine files and sandpaper to clean up any flash or mold lines on the resin parts for a polished finish.
Painting: Apply primer before painting to ensure even coverage and adhesion. Use airbrushing for larger surfaces and fine brushes for detailing.
Integration into Layouts Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer
The Westerfield R7 reefer can be seamlessly integrated into various HO scale layouts, especially those depicting early to mid-20th-century railroading. It is particularly well-suited for:
Urban Freight Yards: Showcase the car being loaded or unloaded at a bustling terminal.
Rural Agricultural Scenes: Position the reefer alongside fields or orchards to represent its role in transporting fresh produce.
Mixed Freight Trains: Include the reefer in a consist alongside other PRR rolling stock to create an authentic period train.
The model’s historical accuracy and visual appeal make it a focal point in any layout, enhancing both realism and storytelling.
The Broader Appeal of PRR Reefer Models
For Historians
The Westerfield R7 reefer is more than just a model; it is a piece of history that tells the story of early refrigerated transport. Historians can use it to study the evolution of rail logistics and the economic impact of perishable freight.
For Collectors
Collectors value the Westerfield Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer for its rarity and craftsmanship. It represents a specific era of railroading that is often underrepresented in model form, making it a prized addition to any collection.
For Hobbyists
For hobbyists, the R7 reefer offers a rewarding building experience and an opportunity to showcase advanced modeling skills. Its detailed design and historical significance make it a standout project for dedicated builders.
Conclusion
The Westerfield HO 1913 PRR Reefer is a masterpiece of model railroading, blending historical accuracy with exceptional craftsmanship. It serves as a tribute to the ingenuity of early 20th-century railroad engineers and the enduring legacy of the Pennsylvania Railroad. Whether you are a historian, a collector, or a hobbyist, this model offers a unique connection to a bygone era of railroading.
By building and displaying the Westerfield R7 reefer, enthusiasts can celebrate the rich history of refrigerated transport and contribute to the preservation of railroad heritage. It’s not just a model; it’s a story on rails, waiting to be told.
