Three Famous Toy Trains

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Introduced in 1937 Lionel the leading New York toymaker spent 75,000 dollars developing this 1/48 scale model.

Warner’s Polar Express is clearly modelled on a post war descendent of this product. 

Launched in 1946 the Lionel 726 ‘Berkshire’ would have been top of many American children’s list for Santa and will feature in our show complete with lights, sound and steam effects.

Launched in 1938 this model was reworked to be the 726, 2-8-4.

Now in production as the Polar Express, the 1946 model is still made today. 

The Hogwarts Express was a feature of the Harry Potter story and made in toy form by Lionel for the USA and Hornby for the UK markets.

On show will be this Lionel O Gauge version .

The Reverend W Awdry began writing children’s stories about Railway engines for his son during the 2nd World War and his first book was published in 1945.

Thomas first appeared in the 2nd book of Awdry’s railway series, which would sell more than 50  million copies in a dozen languages plus toy and TV production worldwide.

Text and Exhibition design by Mike Tilley, 

Backscene painting by Rebecca Purnell,

Landscape modelling by Jed Butress.

www.newcastle-arts-centre.co.uk