The Union Pacific Cheyenne Division is set in the wide open spaces of the West. This HO layout is designed to showcase the vastness of the landscape with broad curves and sweeping scenic vistas. The U.P. is a great place for John to display his large collection of brass locomotives and cars. He likes to take them out of the boxes and run them for his enjoyment and the entertainment of his guests. John considers the layout a way for him to keep alive the history of railroading especially for people who don't remember the glory days.

John is a railroad executive who shuns the modern scene in favor of the 1930s thorough the 1960s. The layout is a way to re-create historical scenes and activites that John either saw or wishes had seen.