Marita Richards was born into a model railroad family (her father and brother). After marriage, her husband joined the hobby and then their son. Marita and her husband Melvin are members of NMRA and are working on the achievement program and have a HO model railroad in their enclosed garage. Marita has operated trains ever since she was tall enough to see the layout. Marita is a retired librarian, who loves to read, research, and share historical programs. She believes railroad history is quite fascinating because railroads played a vital role in the development of this country. Her previous clinic presentations at NMRA national and regional conventions include the History of the Pullman Company, the Harvey Girls, and Dining on the Rails.