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The British Train Society

The British Train Society (BTS) is an organization for individuals with interests in various aspects of the railway system in the British Isles both past and present. These interests are fostered through an exchange of information based on actual operating knowledge, research or general interest. Model railway building and operation provides a theme around which other interests can be explored but not to the exclusion of other topics.   The BTS was founded in suburban Chicago in the spring of 1995 for the purpose of bringing together those in the Chicago area who have interests in the trains of Great Britain.  We welcome enthusiasts of British railways of all ages and modelers of all gauges. The British Train Society will acquaint you with others whose knowledge and enthusiasm for British trains spans time from their inception in the coalfields of Britain's North East to today's high-speed international trains of the Channel Tunnel. 

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The Society's activities are noncommercial and are intended to promote the interests of the members in a spirit of mutual respect and fellowship.

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Objective

The British Train Society is an organization for individuals with a mutual interest in subjects pertaining to the history, operating practices , motive power, rolling stock and developments of the railway system in the British Isles both past and present. These interests will be fostered through an exchange of information based on actual operating knowledge, research or experience gained in other ways. Railway modeling, or model operation, provides a theme around which other interests can be explored but not to the exclusion of other topics. The Society's activities are non commercial and are intended to promote the mutual interests of the members in a spirit of respect and fellowship.

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Membership in the British Train Society

Membership in the BTS is open to all who have an interest in the trains and railways of Great Britain, whether model or full sized. The BTS is also fortunate to have a member-owned 00-scale modular model railway layout which is exhibited at various public venues around Chicago during the year. Many members of the BTS are also active railway modelers with home layouts in most popular scales.

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Membership Benefits

Regular members receive a monthly club newsletter, Left Hand Running, which has railway histories, model and prototype information and a coming-events calendar.
The BTS meets each month at the home of a member, generally on the third Saturday of each month. Meetings begin at 1:30 pm and consist of a short business meeting followed by a presentation by one of our members.

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Join The British Train Society

The British Train Society would like to extend to you this invitation to become a member of our organization.
Membership dues for the BTS are $15.00 per calendar year and if you would like to join the BTS, you may complete and send us a copy of our application form.  
For further information about membership in the BTS, please send us an email with your details to britishtrainsociety@gmail.com
Someone from our membership team will respond. As we are a volunteer organization, please allow some time for a response.

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