Why are Railfans called foamers?
“Foamers” is how railroad employees refer to railfans because they think we “foam” at the mouth anytime we see a train. To them, railroading is just a job.
What are people who are obsessed with trains called?
A railfan, rail buff or train buff (American English), railway enthusiast or railway buff (Australian/British English), trainspotter or ferroequinologist is a person interested, especially recreationally, in rail transport.
How many Railfans are there?
175,000 U.S. railfans
Trains Magazine, an industry publication, estimates that there are 175,000 U.S. railfans, mostly male baby boomers.
What do trainspotters do?
A train spotter is generally a person whose hobby involves watching trains and writing down the number in which each engine has; whereas a railway buff/ rail fan is generally interested in trains, without being involved in the train spotting sport.
How many railfans are there?
Is Railfanning a job?
Although some railroaders are railfans themselves, many view it as just a job with no emotional attachment to the industry in any way, shape or form. As such, these folks are distrustful, and sometimes even hostile, to train enthusiasts who watch or photograph trains near the tracks.
How many trainspotters are there in the UK?
100,000 trainspotters
There are said to be some 100,000 trainspotters in the UK. The ultimate aim is to have seen every train in the country. The practice mostly involves anorak-clad brethren hanging around the ends of railway platforms.
What does foamer stand for?
An obsessive railfan
foamer (plural foamers) (slang) An obsessive railfan, often used pejoratively. A device that foams or froths liquid.
What is virtual railfan?
Official channel of Virtual Railfan, Inc. Virtual Railfan is the premiere provider for live train cams all over the United States providing live views from some of the most iconic railroading spots on earth. Visit our website and start train watching today! We bring the trains to you!
What does it mean to be a railfan?
You may have heard the term “railfans” or “train enthusiasts” and wondered what either meant. For many, the idea of having an interest in railroads seems rather absurd, even more-so by the notion of photographing them. In reality, such a pastime not only exists but has also thrived for many decades.
Why are Railroaders so unhappy with railfans?
Although some railroaders are railfans themselves, many view it as just a job with no emotional attachment to the industry in any way, shape or form. As such, these folks are distrustful, and sometimes even hostile, to train enthusiasts who watch or photograph trains near the tracks.
What is the best magazine for railfans?
Only since Kalmbach Publishing released Trains Magazine in 1940 has there been a publication tailored specifically towards railfans. Other titles under the Kalmbach name include Classic Trains, Model Railroader, Garden Railways, and Classic Toy Trains .