A Short History of Model Train Collecting

For as long as trains have been in existence, there have been people interested in building smaller models of them for fun and collecting purposes. How this has been done has changed quite a lot, however, over the past century.

If you were interested in creating a model train layout during the early 1900′s, you would have most likely had to design and build the complete layout yourself, as prefabricated train kits were not yet widely available. A few manufacturers were developing train cars as early as 1900, but these were few and far between. Most model train enthusiasts would build their models using ordinary household items.

By the 1930s and 1940s, manufactured trains by Lionel, Ives and few other manufacturers were starting to become more widely available, as were tracks and other manufactured scenery elements. In the 1950s, however, a big change occurred when plastic modeled trains and train kits entered the market. Some of the first plastic train kits by Aurora became very popular household items. These model train kits were very easy to set up and required little technical expertise or skill. Because of the ease of using these manufactured kits, the general interest in model railroading expanded greatly.

However, in the past couple of decades, interests in hand crafting scenery elements has re-emerged, while manufactured trains have become increasingly sophisticated and realistic in design. Today’s model train layouts are often a combination of homemade scenery elements and sophisticated manufactured ones. Model train clubs, conferences and shows have become increasingly popular as well. Now is a great time to become a model train collector!

To find out how to make the best model railroad layouts, you check out the excellent guide: Model Trains for Beginners. This easy to follow guide will teach you all the basics of model railroading, including how to create beautiful and affordable model model train scenery at home.