American Flyer New York Central

World War II ended the production of toy electric trains from 1940 through 1945. When production resumed after the war, their popularity skyrocketed.

By the 1950′s, electric trains were the most popular toys among boys in the United States. Lionel was the largest toy train manufaturer, and they had become much more affordable.

Over the years various gauges of toy trains were introduced to the public. Realistic sounds and digital control systems were eventually added to the electric toy trains in the 1980′s. It has been estimated that there are over a half million train collectors in the United States and Canada.

Toy trains first appeared on the market during the 1860′s. These trains were simply designed and were made from wood and metal. It is highly unlikely that the designers of them had any inkling of what these simple floor toys would evolve into.

The first electric toy train was introduced to the world in 1901, a product of the Lionel Toy Company. Originally this train was meant to be used only as a window display. However, customers soon grew more interested in the trains in the window display than in the merchandise.

During the 1920′s electric toy trains became really popular. All of the kids wanted one, but only the rich could afford them.

…more tomorrow…..