I say I model PRR in 1954, but there's some fudge-factor in that claim. For example, I still run HH1's, which were gone by '49. So, as some of the other members suggested, it's more of a spread than a year. For PRR at least, 1954 (give or take
) allows me to run a nice mix of steam and early diesels. Remember, first-and-foremost, it's your railroad. Regardless of what year or span of time you model, there's always room for the equipment you like that's outside that range, if you so desire.
Chris Broughton