I think one of the important elements of a railroad is the philosophy behind it. That philosophy is going to affect every aspect of the model, from the physical layout and scale, to paint scheme, finish and detail.

The primary requirement for the BBC&A is that I enjoy it. This is a purely selfish venture. Some compromises must still be made. My wife demands a certain cuteness factor, and in pursuit of domestic bliss, that will be pursued.

I think that when all is said and done, this is a model railroad. That means that there is a reason for it's existance, there is freight to pull and people who need to get to work. With that in mind, I've tried to develop both a history and character that appeals to me. The line is primarily freelance, and I haven't worked out where the connections are yet.

Annandale is the main metropolis, and has industries to reflect that. There is a brewery, a couple of small factories producing as yet undetermined goods, and an interchange to other lines. There is also the main terminals and train facilities for the BBC&A, as well as a passenger terminal.

Bedford is the second major city along the line. It is smaller, not as industrial. There is a dairy processing plant and another passenger station available here.

Briarose is a mining community set in the mountains. Obviously there are mining and smelting operations here.

Clover is a small whistlestop in an agricultural district. Milk is picked up here, as well as cows and grain.

The interaction of these towns and industries is what dictates the character and function of the line. Milk cars will run with passenger trains. Small mixed freights will move from Annadale to Briarose to Bedford to the interchange.