Hampton Caves
Basic Information
Name: Hampton Caves
Built by: Don Hampton in 1999
Size: 3ft corner
Introduction
This module was donated to the club in 2006. It features shale rock outcroppings made using redwood tree bark. It also features viewable underground cave areas. George Barrier refurbished the module in 2018, replacing track ballast and trees that had fallen off with new ones. George also made a few modifications such as adding realistic cave colors and features and adding working lights to the sign and the caves.
Module upgrades (2018)
The Cave
What was once thought to be just a scar in the mountain’s foam support is now starting to look like a cave. Some plaster is added to give the right texture. Some scenic paints of various rocky colors are also added starting with a light tan. Some yellow ochre and grey are lightly washed on to give some variety to the color. Toothpicks are glued into the floor to simulate stalagmite and to the ceiling to simulate stalactite.
The Cave
The floor of the lowest cave (there are 3 of them) is painted blue to give it a flooded look. The blue is coated in Glosscote Clear Finish to make it shiny like real water. Lights are added in the corners of the caves to bring more attention to them at shows. The only thing missing is the cave climbers (still looking for them).
The Scenery
The road looks like it is in pretty good condition. A light was added to the highway sign. At least 50 trees were added to replace ones that have fallen off. The “blue” track was given a dusting of grass to make it look less used than the others. Some boulders were added to the base of the cliff to simulate fallen rocks.
Ready for the show
With all the work complete, this module is ready to be used in shows.
