The HOBO Breakfast, a PCR/PSR Tradition
Hobos are, by definition, model railroaders who have attended at least one NMRA National convention outside the boundary of their home region. While our Hobo group may not be down on their luck or out of work, they are well-traveled folks, and all are welcome to join in this time of camaraderie while enjoying a fine breakfast.
Hobos are encouraged to bring guests to this activity. If you are not a Hobo by definition and would like to join us, you are welcome to come and participate in the fun and frivolity!
HOBO History
THE PCR HOBOS FOUNDED 1961
At the 1961 Pacific Coast Region (PCR) Convention held in Sacramento, California, the Hobos group was formed at a reunion breakfast held by those members who attended the 1960 NMRA SILVER ANNIVERSARY CONVENTION in Chicago, Illinois. Karl Busch, having organized the breakfast, was designated the “Biggest Bum”, and adopted the name “T. Russ Rod”.
The purpose of the Hobos is to encourage and recognize attendance at model railroad conventions, particularly National Conventions. A Hobo goes to conventions for the fun of it, no matter what the program may be. The Hobo group neither supports nor opposes causes or positions. The “group attention” is focused on convention participation and fun.
Hobo membership is obtained by the Region Member attending an out of the region National Convention. The “Official Event” is the HOBO BREAKFAST at the Annual Regional Convention.
In 1982, the boundaries of the Pacific Coast Region were changed to include only the five northern divisions, Coast, Daylight, Redwood Empire, Sierra, and Hawaiian, of California and Hawaii. The Cajon, Los Angles, San Diego and Arizona Divisions became the new Pacific Southwest Region.
In conformance with the basic principles stated above, “The Hobo group neither supports nor opposes causes or positions”; the Hobos are a group affected by the change, not a participant in making the change. The name “Hobo” stays with the members in both Regions. The “herald” remains the same color for both Regions. The Region designation is the only difference in the two heralds.
As is customary, we will have the “Official Beggar” circulating with his tin can collecting any coins (or paper) you can contribute toward keeping the Hobo tradition going. We will also have pins and patches for sale at the breakfast, should you wish to advertise your allegiance.
Please join us Saturday morning, August 10th, for this traditional breakfast. Space is limited, so sign up today!