The National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) is an organization for model railroading enthusiasts.  Founded in 1935, it is a non-profit organization that supports the hobby of scale model railroading through education, advocacy, and establishing standards.

It sets standards for dimensions, track gauges, and electrical systems, which ensures that model railroad equipment from different manufacturers can be interchanged and operated together.  The NMRA facilitates social interaction through clubs, conventions, and regional divisions, and promotes the hobby through publications and exhibits. 

WMRC membership in the NMRA - free when you become a WMRC member - gives you access to this global organization at no charge.  That is one of the most significant tangible benefits of being a member of the WMRC.  To see the many benefits of NMRA membership look at the Membership page.

There are 18 NMRA Regions across the globe, and each Region comprises many Divisions.

Regions usually hold annual or semi-annual conventions, including presentations and clinics, as well as tours to model layouts, prototype tours, and even banquets and swap meets.  All Regions have a member newsletter.

The WMRC is within the Thousand Lakes Region (TLR), one of seven.  TLR publishes a digital newsletter, The Fusee.   

There are over 150 NMRA Divisions - groups of NMRA members in local communities.

The WMRC is part of the No. 1 Northern Division.

Every summer the NMRA National Convention brings together its members for a week of clinics, contests, layout tours, prototype excursions, the National Train Show®, and dozens of other exciting activities.  Every year it's held in a different city, so it makes an ideal family vacation!