The Third & Townsend Story
My name is Jay, and I’ve been a model railroader nearly my entire life. I joined the San Leandro Historical Railway Society at the age of 7, and that early experience set me on a lifelong path of exploring, modeling, and preserving railroad history. What started as a childhood fascination quickly grew into a deep and focused passion, especially for the Southern Pacific during the Transition Era, with an emphasis on operations throughout California.
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Over the past decade, a life, in more than one sense of the word, in model trains, while pursuing a degree from Colorado State University, was never even a thought. Until a fateful encounter with Scott Mann of Sunset Models 3rd Rail while hunting for an HO Scale Southern Pacific M-9.
Since then, my career has been built around designing, advertising, and selling model trains of all scales and manufacturers. I’ve spent years handling some of the rarest and most historically significant models through estate purchases and private collections, learning not just the value of these models, but the stories and craftsmanship behind each one. That hands-on experience taught me the importance of accuracy, quality, and trust, values that I will bring to every project we announce and produce in the future.
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Throughout my work with Sunset Models 3rd Rail, I've developed a deep understanding of the process behind building and importing model trains. From concept to CAD design, from working with overseas builders to the logistics of international production, I’ve come to appreciate the incredible complexity and dedication it takes to bring a truly great model to life. It’s a blend of art, engineering, and historical research, and it’s something I’ve made my mission to continue and improve upon.
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Third & Townsend Models is more than just a business, it’s a personal commitment to quality, transparency, and honoring the legacy of the hobby. As the future home of Sunset Models 3rd Rail and Golden Gate Depot, I’m incredibly proud to be continuing the work of some of the most respected names in scale model railroading. My goal is to carry their legacy forward while introducing new ideas, technologies, and approaches that serve today’s modelers.
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Whether you’re a collector, an operator, or just getting started, I invite you to join us. Give us your suggestions. Give us your critiques. Trust us, that we will bring forth the best and most accurate models this generation of model railroaders are longing for.
This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to show you what’s coming down the line.
