My Opinion
The painting style rather than a photo is part of the negative discussion elsewhere : I am not a marketing expert so I can't say which is best for marketing the railroad.
The Location is part of the negative discussion elsewhere: I discussed this with Barbara and she and I agree this is a GREAT location and YES it has paid off. Numerous folks when they are in the store have answered the question "How did you find us"
1. We came in to see what the train thing is about. We saw the sign down south of town.
2. Folks on the way to the Osprey Fest came in to town because of the sign and booked rooms and made train reservations.
3. Hunters have come in to ask about the train thing they saw on the sign on the way into town. Some have ridden while here for their hunt and others have booked rooms and made train reservations for them and their families.
I have discussed it with Gayle and she says her feedback tells her it is a good location. She has proven to be double very good at marketing.
Bottom Line IMHO: Great location not just a good one.