Now he wants more from the area to take part in researching the history of the railroad, either by taking similar trips or constructing a small-scale model. McCullough, a Warrenton resident for 10 years, is seeking interest in forming a local railroad club. The group held its first meeting last Tuesday, Sept. 2, at the Train Haus, a store at the Preferred Outlets at Warrenton which houses models and other railroading memorabilia. More than 20 people showed up from the Warrenton, Marthasville and Troy areas. McCullough also said he has been receiving phone calls from as far away as Illinois. "Our ultimate goal is to provide railroading in all of its forms to members and the community," McCullough said. "We want to get people interested. We're coming to an end of an era. There is so much heritage involved with it." McCullough got the idea of forming a railroad club after talking with others, including a club in Mexico, Mo. One of his hobbies is to build train models. Twenty years ago, McCullough and his wife were instrumental in organizing the Mark Twain Lake Sailing Association. Now he sees potential in Warren County. McCullough figures the club will attract individuals who are into train modeling and any former railroad employees. There are no requirements to be a club member, "It will be open to anyone with interest in railroads," McCullough said. Following last week's meeting, members in attendance received a survey on finalizing a club name and bylaws. Other activities have yet to be decided, but McCullough said train rides and visits to railroading museums would likely be popular trips. Meetings will be held the first Tuesday of every month. Members will meet again Oct. 7. "Everyone is enthusiastic," McCullough said. "We're in the forming stages, but it's going well." Mary Hofmeister, owner of the Train Haus, is excited to see a local club form. "There are train clubs all around," she said. "It started out as a hobby, but it turned into a business. The possibilities are endless." McCullough added the club should be in full swing by December or January. "A lot of people enjoy trains in one form or another," he said. "I think we can give the group something to enjoy."