Sorry, I rather not name any of the selfish giants* specifically , but they have no mercy for the "Main Street USA" B&M shops who were a part of so many typical towns who have sadly become part of the lost American way of life. I first noticed this back in the 80s when I visited Cushing, Oklahoma, where downtown had become shabby thanks to a mall that had been constructed a few miles away.
Many towns all across the US have rediscovered their "Main Street" heritage again and are proud of their past, having invested much to restore them as they once were. Carrollton, Texas, is an example. Carrollton is also unique in that all three rail lines still see service in Century 21, albeit operated by other carriers. Gone are the Frisco Fast Freights, Cotton Belt Blue Streaks, or the lonesome Katy's Denton Local.
Shucks, even the SSW depot survives, though having been relocated close to it's original location, however lucky by having escaped demolation as many have across the face of America, having been replaced with nothing but a pile of weeds to remind you that once upon a time the railroad came to town.
Change isn't always good just for change sake.
* I consider the online merchants the selfish giants. They've made their $$$ because the Mom and Pop Brick & Mortar shops couldn't sell at discount since they couldn't afford to stock their shelves from the floor to the ceiling with mechandise bought in bulk. So save that buck as you morn the shops that once offered personal service with a smile plus many a Saturday afternoon chat with fellow model railroaders.
And what about these model railroaders? Oh sure, heck, you bet, they're still very active in the hobby too, also purchasing their choo choo trains online just like you, but running them on their layouts all alone with no train shop down the street to visit anymore. Back to the Future? Personally, I miss the good old days with the gab and free cup of good black coffee at Bobbye Hall's Hobby House in Dallas. Texas ain't the same anymore without her and her crew to greet you with a friendly Howdy when you entered the place!
RIP Miss Hall. I bet you're busy turning over in your grave to see what has happened to the traditional B&M shops in America today. We've lost more than just the shops. We've lost a larger part of our heritage too by having saved a couple of bucks.
73
Joe
