Use modern Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and extensive historical sources to scene and plan a model railroad based on prototypes.  Also learn about the ICC nationwide railroad valuation maps started in 1916-1918 and projects to digitize and organize these documents.  Utilizing right-of-way drawings with GIS elevation data, historic maps and aerial photos to understand terrain and track arrangements of a railroad to model.  The author uses digital railroad research sources and physical archives, and maintains the RailsandTrails.com website