Lineup
Cover Story
The Gift of a Lifetime
Steve Hepler’s first Lionel set arrived during Christmas of 1958 and still welcomes the arrival of the holidays.
By Steve Hepler
Cover Photo by Steve Hepler
So, you bought a starter set
Train sets have gone high-tech. Here’s what you need to know after you open the box.
By Bob Keller
S Gauge Spotlight
“Just toys” or rational business decisions?
The story behind American Flyer’s oddities adds collector interest.
By George Hoffer
Holidays & Toy Trains
The perfect holiday display
Trains and the right props bring an old Detroit movie theater to life.
By Roger Carp
All I want for Christmas is a Flyer triple-dome tanker
Marv Raguse wished for a snazzy new S gauge freight car in 1955.
By Marv Raguse
The Lehigh lives again!
A great layout salutes the famed coal-hauling fallen flag.
By Roger Carp
The early world of Lionel store display layouts
Moving trains as a sales tool were essential right from the start.
By Roger Carp
Weekend Workshop
What’s above your layout?
How to add an animated hot-air balloon above your railroad.
By Gene Maag