Trains

Trains were the invention marvel of the 19th century.  It thoroughly revolutionized land transportation and made possible the unprecedented movement of goods and people to and from prairies, villages, towns, and cities.  Unlike airplanes in the century that followed, trains slice through our own civilization up close, leaving behind deep in us an unmistakable rhythm that is punctuated by the bellowing of horns.  This signature sound, even to this day, evokes in us the sense of connectedness to our far away brethren.

Panasonic GH2, Rokkor MD 50mm f1.4.

The model train show at the National Heritage Museum was presented by the Hub Division of the NMRA.

Men and their games

This picture was taken in, of all places, Boston, MA. The men are engaged in a game called Xiangqi, which is an ancient Chinese board game related to the western game of chess.

Panasonic GH2 with MC Rokkor-PF 50mm f1.7

Instead of a duel between two chess masters, the Chinese version seems to be played by two opposing generals, each with a team of trusted advisers constantly dispensing their opinions.  More pictures from the Chinatown in Boston can be found here.