Tinplate Legends in Action

Sure to appeal to model-railroad aficionados and antiques fanciers, Tinplate Legends in Action takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane with train sets dating from before the World Wars—in some cases even back to the 19th century. As described by enthusiastic collectors and experts, the “tinplate” engines (some key-wound rather than electric) and layouts—usually American- or European-manufactured—did not feature the accurate detailing of later scale models and meticulous modern reproductions. Stylized out of plain metal sheeting and sometimes wonderfully fanciful, these pieces are compared by one connoisseur to French Impressionist painting. Such relics have been passed down and traded by celebrity owners, including cartoonist Ward Kimball and broadcast legend Tom Snyder. One lengthy interlude concerns Snyder's posthumous wish (he died in 2007) to transfer his sprawling, hi-rail standard-gauge layouts (including a formidable wooden mountain) intact to a public locale; it's now on display at the New Jersey Hi-Railers Train Club. An enjoyable excursion into the past, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady)