What Are You Doing In Florence, The Antiques Capital of Colorado? TINY TOWN, RAILROAD

We are always curious to know what people are doing in Florence, the antiques capital of Colorado. And most importantly, we are interested in what significance the treasures they find here have.

Recently we met Wayne Russert, who resides on a ranch outside of Castle Rock, in Florence.

                                                   WAYNE RUSSERT in FLORENCE,CO

At first I wasn't sure what had captured Wayne's attention. But when he began inspecting his find, the sound of a railroad crossing bell rang through The Iron Gate Antique Mall.

And this beauty is going to the world famous Tiny Town & Railroad in Morrison, outside of Denver.

For those not acquainted with the joys of Tiny Town, the attraction features a 1/6-scale Western town and a steam-powered locomotive vistors can ride.

Wayne plans on using this Florence find--a railroad signal--on the redesign of Tiny Town's railroad crossing.

The history of Tiny Town is interesting (as most places are in Colorado) and more information on this family-friendly attraction is available at: http://tinytownrailroad.com/

Wayne has an interesting history too. He's a retired aeronautical engineer who also happened to work at a railroad. He is also involved at the Pikes Peak Historical Street Railway Foundation. More information on that organization is at: http://www.visitcos.com/venue/colorado-springs-attractions/Pikes-Peak-Historical-Street-Railway-Foundation

Even though he is retired, the engineer says he is busier than ever. And it appears most of what he is involved with involves enjoying and preserving history.

So, like so many others--Wayne found himself in Florence, where history comes alive in every shop.