The History of HO Model Trains

Since the invention of real railways, the world has seen toys and models of trains. Indeed there are some early locomotive models that were initially made as promotional sales tools for the early railways. Later during the Victorian era, toy locomotives and model trains came in different categories. This included live steam engines which were expensive and just meant for the wealthy. There were also the pull-along trains which came in all shapes and sizes. Most toy model trains originated from Germany while the better class type of steam engines came from France and Britain.

The HO model train is among the most popular railway model in the US. This model is thought to have obtained its name from Half-O, mainly because its scale is 1:87, which is approximately half of the O scale. HO trains were first seen in the UK around 1930s. Originally it was an OO scale which later became more popular in the US around the 1950s. These trains were introduced in the US because interest in model trains began and more emphasis was placed on practicality. Although the HO size is more delicate compared to O scale, the small size allows the modelers to use more scale miles and fit more details into a model train layout.

The defining occurrence in HO model train history was launched in 1891 by Marklin, a German toy company best known for model railway trains. The initial models of HO trains were derived from the Marklin’s initial model train products; these trains had a series of normal track gauges that were ready to utilize the track sections. The trains also had a wide range of rolling stock, accessories and locomotives to match. This is significant because people could have their first complete train set, then expand and add up continually until their small railroad territory was complete.

The first Marklin HO model trains were created in 3 gauges known as 1, 2 and 3. The main material that was used was soldered, painted tinplate. Though the materials were crude, the range (locomotives, rolling stock and accessories) was a huge success. So after adding a small fourth gauge O within a short period of time, Marklin decided to improve and expand its range of products. At the same time, other competitive products were introduced by toy makers in Germany, especially Bing.  Despite diverging standards among different manufacturers, the German toy model train makers eventually adopted Marklin’s gauge standard, as they tried to come up with new production skills. These new techniques included using printed (lithographed) tinplate which allowed more colorful and affordable products.

Since the German toy business was strictly export oriented, the HO model train spread all over the world. The key markets where the HO model train flourished were France, Britain, and the United States. Thanks to the German companies such as Marklin and Bing, HO model trains and accessories are widely available from a large selection of manufacturers.

Note: If you enjoyed reading this article, you might also be interested in reading, Model Train Secrets Exposed.

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The Different Types of Model Railway Trains

When you think about model railway trains, what is the first image you see? It’s probably a miniature form of an actual railway train. Moreover, the picture you’ve imagined is probably not just the locomotive by itself. The train more closely resembles a long snake with many railroad cars attached together.

You’re probably asking, “What does this have to do with model trains, right?” When people refer to model trains, they are referring to the locomotive and the railroad cars. The locomotive is the motor or engine that powers the entire train along the tracks; the railroad cars are the cars coupled to the locomotive that collectively forms the train.

Just like the real train, the replica must serve a purpose. After all, it would be odd to see a single locomotive chugging along the train track by itself. The railroad cars attached to the locomotive serve one of two primary, revenue-generating purposes. The train is either transporting passengers or freight from one location to another. This sounds simple enough so far, but most people are not familiar with the different types of railroad cars. Let’s explore the different types of railway cars in each category.

First, let’s take a closer look at passenger cars. The passenger-carrying cars have different functions and configurations. For instance, the following examples below highlight different types of passenger cars:

  • Coach – This is the most common passenger car where the interior rows of chairs are similar to the interior of a commercial passenger airplane. Two specific examples of this type of railway car are mass transit systems and long distance luxury trains.
  • Dining Car – This car resembles a long, narrow restaurant and provides full-service, sit down meals to passengers. This car is also referred to as a restaurant car or a diner.
  • Lounge – A lounge car is also known as a buffet or club car. This type of car is different because there is more space for passengers to move around, socialize, enjoy the view, purchase food from a grill, or order drinks from a bar. Some lounge cars even feature live music to entertain the passengers.
  • Observation – This is the last car in a passenger train. The main feature of this railway car is the tail end of the car; it is U-shaped and features larger windows. This design allows the passenger to enjoy the views.
  • Sleeping Car – This car was also called a “sleeper” or “Pullman car”. These cars provide sleeping facilities for riders travelling overnight.

A freight car (also called goods wagon) are used to transport freight. There are a wide variety of freight cars. Some of the more common types include:

  • Box Car – The box car has a roof and doors either at the side or end. It is also known as a covered wagon or goods van in the UK. This type of car is used to carry general freight.
  • Hoppers – This type of freight car is used to transport commodities such as coal, iron ore, grain, sugar, fertilizer, etc. The hopper can either be an open or covered design.
  • Stock Cars – The stock car transports livestock such as cattle, horses, sheep, pigs and poultry.
  • Refrigerator Cars (also called reefers) – A reefer is simply a refrigerated box car.
  • Tank Wagons (also called tank cars) – This car transports liquid or gaseous commodities such as milk, gasoline, liquid hydrogen, etc.

As one can see, the model train enthusiast has a lot of choices when it comes to designing the train. This is definitely one of the reasons why this hobby is so appealing to many. You may even feel the urge to go out and build your very own model railway train!

Note: If you enjoyed reading this article, you might also be interested in reading, Model Train Secrets Exposed.

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Pictures of Model Trains

Send me a picture of your model train layout and I’ll post it on my site for the world to see!  Just email info (at ) ultimatemodeltraintips (dot ) com with your pictures attached.

Here are some photos that have been sent in to Ultimate Model Train Tips.  Enjoy!

model railway trains

model train photo by John Catsoulis

model train photo of the Berlin Zoo


Toy Model Trains Are Not Just Toys

toy model trainDo you ever wonder why grown adults play with toy model trains? Well, to answer that question, we need to think back to our childhood.

Did you ever have that toy train chugging under the Christmas tree when you were little? Or, maybe you grew up playing with Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends. Regardless of your specific experience or memory, many of you will agree that a number of us were exposed to toy trains at some point in our childhood. These miniature machines captivated our fascination and imagination as children.

So why is it that some adults can still be found playing with these “toys”? First of all, let’s be clear that these adults are not merely playing with toys. Toy trains are usually plastic, low-priced, and low quality. As such, some of these trains may not even survive the wear and tear they are subjected to. These trains are definitely the kinds of toys kids play with; they may even be a great way to introduce them to the model train hobby. But let’s not confuse terminology.

Model trains are not just toys; it is a serious hobby enjoyed by enthusiasts of all ages throughout the world. These trains—not to be confused as toys—are complex machinery with gears and bearings. The train, also known as a locomotive, is typically powered by electricity and resembles a miniature version of the real thing. These locomotives are usually made out of metal and are of higher quality than the cheaper, plastic toy trains. The difference between toy trains and model trains is not just comparing the locomotive though.

Model train hobbyists get to unleash their creative spirit by designing and building an entire miniature display with the train, layout, and scenery. If you’ve ever attended a model railroad show or convention, you’ll realize these displays are sophisticated works of art. It takes quite a bit of time, patience, and skill to build a replica of a town, city, or railroad freight yard down to the tiniest detail with roads, trees, buildings and structures. Sure, some of those miniature pieces can be purchased and assembled “as is”. However, many serious hobbyists build many of the items on display (if not all of it entirely) from scratch.

Most of these displays don’t have the typical, boring oval model railroad track with the train going in a circle either. With all the model train track shapes and designs available, the enthusiast can create a model train track layout that will give their train a work out. Model train tracks are available in different materials, from simple plastic to solid metal which helps facilitate the flow of electricity and power to the locomotive.

As you can see, model trains are not toys or a passing fad that we outgrow as we get older. Model trains are sophisticated, miniature machines that should never be mistaken as something only children play with. This is a serious hobby that fuels the passion and creativity for children, teenagers, and adults alike. For many model train enthusiasts, it is not something they outgrow. It is a life-long passion and pursuit that can be shared with and admired by many.

Note: If you enjoyed reading this article, you might also be interested in reading, Model Train Secrets Exposed.

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