![This Appekunny Mountain observation car was similar to the same cars that we run on the Western Star. This Appekunny Mountain observation car was similar to the same cars that we run on the Western Star.](https://www.greatnorthernfan.com/wp-content/gallery/ft-benton-to-havre/thumbs/thumbs_img_0992.jpg)
![I think this was layout number two. It did not go too far but I built is all by myself. This is probably around 1975 in our basement in Fridley, MN. I think this was layout number two. It did not go too far but I built is all by myself. This is probably around 1975 in our basement in Fridley, MN.](https://www.greatnorthernfan.com/wp-content/gallery/railroading-runs-in-the-family/thumbs/thumbs_image002.jpg)
![Here is a shot of the model as it is being fitted to the removable frame. Notice the stiffeners along the base of this framework. Here is a shot of the model as it is being fitted to the removable frame. Notice the stiffeners along the base of this framework.](https://www.greatnorthernfan.com/wp-content/gallery/coal-banks-trestle/thumbs/thumbs_bridge_model1.jpg)
![coal-banks-bent-profiles coal-banks-bent-profiles](https://www.greatnorthernfan.com/wp-content/gallery/coal-banks-trestle/thumbs/thumbs_coal-banks-bent-profiles.jpg)
My article on using terrain generation software to generate my railroad backdrop images was published in the July 2014 issue of Model Railroad Hobbyist online magazine. This is a really exciting approach to creating highly realistic backdrops in your computer – no artistic talent required. Check it out in video form here.
Backdrops have long been the bane of artistically challenged railroaders. Entire books have been written on the subject. Several small firms specialize on producing backdrop products. Here, perhaps for the first time, is an introduction to a new technique: computer terrain generation software backdrops. Long the tool of game and move makers, computer generated backdrops may offer the ultimate in computer backdrop realism that can model actual locations. Have a look at my adventures with this new tool.