TRIBUTE TO SEATTLE

Model Train Display

29th Annual Model Train Festival
December 19th through January 1st
(Special dates for Tribute to Seattle: Dec 20th, 21st & 27th)
Washington State History Museum

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Washington State History Museum

Interviews Tim Jordan – Owner of Sheds Plus LLC

Meet Tim Jordan, the master craftsman behind the spectacular “Tribute to Seattle” model railroad display. With over 22 years of dedication, Tim has created an extraordinary miniature world that captures the authentic spirit of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. His passion began while working at Boeing Field, where he was inspired by the diverse trains passing through Seattle – from grain and oil trains to shipping containers, Boeing fuselages, and Sounder commuter trains.

This remarkable exhibition features over 15 official Seattle landmarks, including the iconic Fremont Troll and even a hidden Bigfoot in the mountains for kids to discover. Tim’s attention to detail is unmatched – he even incorporated actual pieces from the demolished Kingdome, with three gondola cars hauling authentic fragments around the layout. His mission? To inspire the younger generation to discover the magic of model railroading through this “really cool layout” that brings Seattle’s rich railroad heritage to life.

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Tim Jordan’s “Tribute to Seattle” at the 29th Annual Model Train Festival

22 Years in the Making – A Labor of Love

🎄 Event Dates

December 19th through January 1st
(Special dates for Tribute to Seattle: Dec 20th, 21st & 27th)

🎁 Perfect For

All Ages – Families & Train Enthusiasts

🎅 Location

Washington State History Museum
1911 Pacific Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98402

⛄ Featured Landmarks

Pink Elephant Carwash, Smith Tower, Space Needle, Fremont Troll & authentic Kingdome pieces

Featured: “Tribute to Seattle” – 22 Years in the Making by Tim Jordan

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🚂 What Makes This Display Special 🚂

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Authentic Seattle

Space Needle & real Kingdome pieces

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Interactive Fun

Find Bigfoot hiding in the mountains!

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Boeing Heritage

Watch trains carry Boeing planes

Plan Your Visit to the Museum Today

Hours: December 19 – January 1, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed December 24 & 25)

Location: Washington State History Museum
1911 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402

Admission: Purchase tickets online or at the museum. Admission is free for members!
Adult: $17.00 | Senior (65+): $14.00 | Military: $14.00 | Student: $11.00 | Child (0-5): Free
Note: Outside discounts and library passes are NOT valid during Model Train Festival.

Don’t miss this incredible wintertime tradition featuring Tim Jordan’s “Tribute to Seattle” – a 22-year labor of love that brings Seattle’s railroad heritage to life. Watch trains carry Boeing fuselages, shipping containers, and even authentic Kingdome pieces through meticulously crafted Seattle landmarks. Kids will love searching for Bigfoot hidden in the mountains! Whether you’re a lifelong train enthusiast or discovering the magic for the first time, the 29th Annual Model Train Festival offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family. As Tim says, “There’s nothing cooler than the Seattle authenticity” you’ll find in this extraordinary display.

Event Details

Tribute to Seattle by Tim Jordan

“My goal into this and model railroading and showing this layout is have the younger generation know about model railroading,” says Tim. After 22 years of meticulous craftsmanship, Tim Jordan has created something truly special. From the Fremont Troll to hidden Bigfoot sightings, from authentic Kingdome pieces to Boeing fuselages on flatcars, every detail tells Seattle’s story. These gallery images capture just a glimpse of the magic – but as Tim says, “You actually need to see a really cool layout to really inspire them.” Come experience it in person!

Not a Member Yet? Join Today!

Become a member of the Washington State Historical Society and unlock exclusive benefits while supporting Pacific Northwest history and culture. Members enjoy year-round access to world-class exhibitions, educational programs, and special events.

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Museum Access

Free admission to all WSHS museums year-round

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Historical Archives

Access to research library and historical collections

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Train Festival

FREE admission to the Model Train Festival

Member benefits include: FREE admission to this year’s Model Train Festival (a $17 value!), free museum admission all year long, 10% discount at museum stores, invitations to exclusive member events, and the satisfaction of preserving Pacific Northwest history for future generations.

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