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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