Brief History Of American Model Trains (S scale)

A Brief History Of American Model Trains

Author: David Blackburn

In order to tell the history of American Model Trains, it is necessary to tell the history of the S scale. This is the scale that is sold by the company today. They have staked their reputation on being able to create model trains in a sector, which is all but forgotten by too large a section of the model train industry. Getting to know this niche market may cause you to want to invest in an S scale model train today.

The S scale is about half way in between O and HO scale. It is characterized by a 1:64 ratio. The model is fairly large as far as model trains are concerned. Because of its size, it is fairly durable. It can handle being mistreated by those who not know much about model trains like children and beginners. The larger size allows the production companies to add more detail to the trains in order to boost the amount of realism as the train powers around the track.

The history of American Model Trains starts in Britain where the S scale first got its start. When it was created before the turn of the century, it was known as the H-1 scale in order to represent its size as half that of the #1 scale. The name was changed in 1937 when CD Models started marketing the track that would be suitable for use in the 1:64 scales. The last change in the name came when the American Flyer brand started selling steam-powered locomotives.

American Flyer Trains got its start as a toy model train company, which was bought by AC Gilbert in 1937. When the company first started selling the trains, they ran on a 3-gauge rail. In 1942, the company started producing a 2-gauge track that is pretty close to what is being used by the same scale trains today. The American Flyer Train business failed in 1967, but the Lionel Company bought the name in order to sell the same scale and using the tracks that the company designed. Lionel still sells the American Flyer brand in their catalogs and online.

The majority of American Model Trains which are produced today are made to look and feel just like the old American Flyer trains. This will bring back a lot of memories for those who remember the trains chugging around the track on Christmas morning. Even if you do not remember, the trains offer a great classical looking train you can enjoy as it powers down the track.

The train you buy today will undoubtedly have a lot of history attached to it. Seldom are the trains going to have such an American heritage as the American Model Trains do. No matter if you buy the train for the history or for the realism, you are sure to enjoy the way it looks as it rolls down the tracks. Make sure you buy the train, which will allow you to have the most fun. Having fun is the name of the game in this and any hobby.

About the Author:

David Blackburn has had a passion for Model Trains for over 20 years. His enthusiasm and knowledge on the subject of model trains can be found in his writing and his new book. For more great information on American model trains visit his site at: http://www.modeltrainsadvice.com. While you are there make sure you sign up for his FREE "Secrets To Successful Model Railroading" Mini Course.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - A Brief History Of American Model Trains

William Burkholder's collection of Lionel, MTH, American Flyer, Williams trains & accessories will be sold at auction January 2, 2010.

(press release)

Chambersburg, PA – “I never thought I’d sell them” said Willliam Burkholder of his train collection, “but my sons and grandsons just aren’t interested.” Due to health considerations, Burkholder and his wife are relocating to Florida. Faced with the decision of what to do with his massive train collection, Burkholder decided auction was the answer. His collection will be sold at Gateway Gallery Auction in Chambersburg on January 2, 2010.

Over the last 10 years, Burkholder spent 400+ hours perfecting his 8’x21’ layout. With shelf after shelf of Lionel, American Flyer, MTH and Williams model trains as a backdrop, Burkholder and his “brakeman” Bandit (one the family Shitzus) operated the 3 train sets that zigzagged across the meticulously maintained landscape.

The Burkholder collection includes pre & post war, engines, dummies, tenders, passenger cars, transformers, cabooses and working accessories such as Mel’s Diner, Ford sales, Sinclair gas, a car wash, oil derricks and more. The collection, in working condition, has been cataloged for auction with a total of 440 lots + accessories.

Burkholder’s love affair with model trains began in his childhood and has only grown through-out the years. Will he miss them? Matter-of-fact as always Burkholder notes “Who knows? Once we move, I may decide to start again.”

The cataloged public auction of Burkholder’s trains will be January 2 at 10 AM at Gateway Gallery Auction located at 643 Kriner Road, Chambersburg, PA 17202. Preview for this auction will be Friday, January 1 from 2 PM – 5 PM. Complete photos and catalog listing available online at www.GatewayAuction.com or by calling 717-263-6512. Video of Burkholder’s running layout can be viewed on YouTube.