Large Scale Central

Bob Brown passes away

General Discussion
#1

Just saw this on Facebook

It is with profound sadness we share the passing of Robert W. Brown, MMR, founding editor of Narrow Gauge & Short Line Gazette and a true pioneer of narrow gauge modeling. For more than five decades, Bob’s vision, dedication, and love of the hobby helped shape generations of model railroaders.

Born in Modesto, Calif., Bob moved to Sacramento during World War II and discovered model railroading in 1944. What began as a youthful interest became the passion of his life. A pioneer of narrow gauge modeling, Bob founded Finelines in 1964, focusing on ¼-inch finescale narrow gauge, and in 1975 launched the Narrow Gauge & Short Line Gazette. Its first issue appeared as March/April 1975. Bob served continuously as editor for more than 51 years, with his final issue scheduled to be March/April 2026. In total, he devoted over six decades to the hobby as a magazine editor. He often said the Gazette existed because of the “fine fellowship of modelers,” a community he deeply valued and helped shape.

Read more about Bob’s life and legacy here: READ MORE: Robert W. Brown, founding editor of Narrow Gauge & Short Line GAZETTE, passes at 93 - Narrow Gauge and Short Line Gazette

#2

Thanks for posting this, Bob.

He kept at it for so long, providing a wonderful learning and sharing platform for so many. Not too surprising that the time would come, but a very sad day nonetheless.

#3

Sad news, Bob was such a driving force in the narrow gauge model RR hobby and not just with his magazine.

#4

Bob;

So sorry to learn this. I wonder how the magazine will fare without him?

Yours, David Meashey