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I found this manuscript from the late John Grams in our manuscript files. There was no date on the envelope but it’s likely from the early 1990s. The article discusses 12 Lionel products that, while great inventions, were fraught with problems or didn’t work exactly as advertised. He included the following disclaimer: “Lionel trains were […]
The history of ore cars dates back to around the time of the Civil War, when they were primarily made of wood. Body construction shifted to steel starting in the late 1880s to the early 1900s, allowing for increased strength and capacity. Ready Made Toys (RMT) has released a new version of its ore car, […]
Titans of Steel, a collectible trading card series honoring the legacy of railroading, was unveiled by Wm. K. Walthers Inc. during the National Train Show in Novi, Mich., in July 2025. “This is a celebration of the railroads that connected a nation and powered America’s growth,” said Travis Goodwin, senior manager of product and brand […]
Note: This article originally appeared in the September 2000 issue of Classic Toy Trains. In celebration of Lionel’s 125th anniversary this year, we’re sharing it online. The Lion has just entered the big-top for his first show. He has plenty of fight, although/ he’s no longer a sleek cub. His tail is a bit […]
Facts and features Name: Buffalo & Susquehanna to Wellsville, Addison & GaletonScale: HO (1:87.1)Size: 12′-4″ x 32′-0″Prototype: Buffalo & Susquehanna and Wellsville, Addison & GaletonLocale: north central PennsylvaniaEra: spring 1910 and spring 1950Style: multi-deck walk-inMainline run: 96 feetMinimum radius: 22″Minimum turnout: No. 8Maximum grade: upper level and lower staging, 2%; middle level, noneBenchwork: wall mountedHeight: […]
Rapido HO Pennsylvania RR H21 hoppers Scale: HO (1:87.1) Price: Single car, $54.95; three-pack, $164.85; and six-pack, $329.70 Era: 1909 to 1970s (varies based on paint scheme) Manufacturer: Rapido Trains, 382 High St., Buffalo, NY 14204; 905-474-3314; rapidotrains.com Features on Rapido HO Pennsylvania RR H21 hoppers: AB or K brake systems as appropriate Body-mounted Rapido […]
In the August 2025 issue of Model Railroader, we featured Art Kear’s HO scale Buffalo & Susquehanna to Wellsville, Addison & Galeton. The 12 x 32-foot multi-deck walk-in layout features a logging line circa 1910 and the steam-to-diesel transition era in 1950. “Once the train room was completed, it was time to get started on […]
In the August 2025 issue of Model Railroader, we featured Art Kear’s HO scale Buffalo & Susquehanna to Wellsville, Addison & Galeton. The 12 x 32-foot multi-deck walk-in layout features a logging line circa 1910 and the steam-to-diesel transition era in 1950. “Once the train room was completed, it was time to get started on […]
Kids have enjoyed playing with toy soldiers for decades, but did you know these playthings date back to ancient Egypt? Author Simon Clark has written a book that chronicles these miniature figures and the folks who collect them. The book begins with a lengthy introduction, loosely covering the 1930s through present day, with a focus […]
Rapido HO Pennsylvania RR G22 gondola Scale: HO (1:87.1) Price: Single car, $54.95; three-pack, $164.85; and six-pack, $329.70 Era: 1915 to 1970s (varies based on paint scheme) Manufacturer: Rapido Trains, 382 High St., Buffalo, NY 14204; 905-474-3314; rapidotrains.com Rapido HO Pennsylvania RR G22 gondola features: 70- or 100-ton trucks with turned metal wheels AB or […]
Almost exactly 160 years ago, the American Civil War wound down to a messy and anticlimactic end. By December 1864, it was apparent the Union had prevailed. It didn’t necessarily win, but at least southern secession had been thwarted. If noticed at all, the anniversary might be an occasion to recount the many roles railroading […]
The rapid expansion of America’s railroad system in the 1800s and early 1900s was driven largely by a small group of powerful businessmen. Here we profile 12 of the most influential railroad magnates who helped shape modern America. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, the men on this list built railroad empires connecting cities, opening the […]
