Tucked within Cypress Village is one of the community’s most creative treasures: the Cypress Village Railroad Club. Founded by residents with a shared passion for trains and miniature building design, the club has spent decades bringing model railroading to life. Complete with intricate landscapes, synchronized lights and a collection of trains both old and new, the club has become a place where history, craftsmanship and fellowship meet on the tracks.

Over the years, the Railroad Club became famous for its attention to detail — complete with 29 engines, more than 100 cars, synchronized streetlights and even a floating hot air balloon. In 1996, members volunteered to help build the Wonderland Express at Regency Square Mall, raising more than $125,000 for the Ronald McDonald House.

By 2000, the layout was considered among the most detailed HO model railroads in the country, with national railroad associations praising its realism. In the early 2000s, dedicated residents like Bob McMillan and volunteers from local railroad clubs kept the trains running, upgrading technology and restoring interest. By 2006, new control systems and wireless throttles were installed, and membership grew again to more than 80 residents.

The Railroad Club has never been just about trains. It has always been about friendship, storytelling and creativity. Residents honored each other by dedicating features in the layout, from buildings to farms to whimsical touches. In 2007, original members were recognized with gold lapel pins — a tradition that continued as new members joined.

Visitors over the years have included railroad historians, retired railroad officers and fellow hobbyists who marveled at the craftsmanship and community spirit behind the Cypress Village Railroad.

Though the club faced challenges, including a fire that closed the old room, the spirit of the railroad never stopped. In 2019, a full history of the club was compiled by resident Mike Boutin, preserving its story for future generations.

Now, the Railroad Club is back on track in its new home in A2, with a refreshed layout and renewed energy. At the recent grand unveiling, residents were introduced to new features, including:

  • Sarah’s Vineyard, dedicated to longtime member and leader Sarah Tourville, who guided the club for more than two decades.
  • Ty’s Mini-Golf, Restaurant & Playland, honoring Executive Director Ty Morgan.

Looking ahead, the club plans to continue honoring residents and staff by naming roads, bridges, buildings and other features within the layout after them — ensuring that many members of the Cypress Village family become a lasting part of the Railroad Club’s story.

Cypress Village is a Retirement Care Community that offers residents an outstanding standard of living with all the services and amenities. Located adjacent to the Mayo Clinic, Cypress Village has beautifully appointed homes and apartments on a 120-acre campus. For more information, call 904-223-6100.