The Golden Age of Toy Trains

The end of World War II saw the advent of the golden age of model railroading in America. This delightful documentary offers a detailed look at the toy train phenomenon that flourished between 1945 and the late 60s, a largely male Baby Boomer experience that for some—as one eyewitness describes it—“makes a boy feel like a man and a man feel like a boy.” Directed by Tom McComas and Joseph Stachler, much of the film focuses on the dominance of—and rivalry between—manufacturers Lionel and American Flyer. Lionel, for example, unveiled such innovations as smoke from a train's chimney, as well as headlights, a whistle, knuckle couplers (for linking train cars), and remote controlled accessories, creating diesel and passenger trains that became instant classics. (Lionel's catalogs were also something to avidly look forward to each year.) American Flyer, meanwhile, offered loads of fantastic accessories for model train layouts, such as moving oil derricks, loaders, gates, and saw mills, all operated by remote control and featuring synchronized moving parts. The two companies were hugely popular with fans, who enjoyed the competition but also generally loved both. Some time is also devoted to discussing trains made by other manufacturers, such as Marx (which made a cheaper product that nevertheless had its own appeal), and KMT (which built trains from aluminum and was known for its strong engines). Along the way, viewers hear from many collectors and fans, whose memories of the toy trains of childhood are a nostalgic treat. Highly recommended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh)