By james art OWENS CROSS ROADS, Ala. (WAFF) – Grant and Jenny Sweer have turned their backyard in Owens Cross Roads into an attraction you can’t miss.
The duo spent almost 3 years planning, designing, building and testing the ‘Grant Funk Railroad’ and now it’s up and running. The massive miniature railroad took up nearly every available square foot of the couple’s backyard. “We bought this house specifically to do the railroad,” Grant told WAFF 48 on Saturday.
Grant says he was a model train dealer and had plenty of experience and spare parts to put this project together. But Jenny says there is room for improvisation in the meticulously planned layout “Whatever looks like fun, we make it happen!” she says.
After completing the project, the Sweers started a social media page, letting people know about the latest additions and when public viewings are allowed. “It was my idea,” Jenny says of opening the railroad to the public. “I love the kids and seeing their faces when they come here … and since we’ve been through all this work, I wanted to share that.”
Grant agrees. “It’s a lot of fun for me. I just love running the railroad and I love all the work it does, the factory work and everything. It all adds up. I make it work, she makes it look good.
While you might think putting this kit together is stressful, Grant says it’s quite the opposite. “It’s my stress reliever.” He told us. The couple say they have met amazing people with many train stories of their own. Grant added, “I’m trying to be a bad influence by getting as many people into this hobby as I can.” Jenny is quick to remind him that even he started small. However, you don’t have to do it on this scale. You can do on a small scale. In fact, it started right around our Christmas tree.”
Speaking of Christmas, the Sweers say they’ll be updating the railroad for the Christmas holidays soon after Halloween.
You can find more details about Grant Funk Railroad on the couple’s Facebook page by clicking here. Please remember that the railway line is in a residential area. Please be respectful and considerate of neighbors when visiting and adhere to the timetable posted on the railway website.
Click here to subscribe on YouTube: Watch WAFF 48’s latest news, sports and weather videos on our YouTube channel!
Copyright 2024 WAFF. All rights reserved.