HE LION® ROAR MAGAZINE OF THE LIONEL COLLECTORS CLUB OF AMERICA T Volume 43, No. 3, February, 2014 S

Full Steam Ahead Aboard NKP 765 A 2014 Convention Excursion Trip Monon Magic

Layout provided by Arkansas Traveler Hobbies in Bald Knob, AR

This Monon operating boxcar will be The text at the roof line spells out packaged in a box bearing the limited- the entire slogan of the railroad – edition Conventional Classic décor by Movin’ on the Monon The Hoosier Line. The onboard Lionel® with bar-end trucks. Add this and deliveryman carries an orange and blue delivering Lionel box ready for presentation at boxcar of a venerable railroad proud of a box of its presence in Indiana to your layout Lionel® your layout with the push of a button. or collection. That state will be the trains to my layout. This boxcar is the last LCCA-sponsored host of the LCCA 2014 Convention in product designed by the late Lou Indianapolis. Caponi, who served as LCCA’s The car is made by Lionel exclusively for Manager of Product Development and members of the LCCA. A new style a former President of the club. LCCA Billboard Frame with three Billboard Inserts – Place this commemorative boxcar on your layout, one of which will be personalized – will accompany celebrate Lou’s creative genius, or display a collectible of this car along with a LCCA commemorative pin. a railroad with deep Midwestern roots on your layout.

MAIL THIS ORDER FORM OR PLACE YOUR ORDER ONLINE Order deadline: April 1, 2014. Limit: Two 2014 Convention Cars per member. DO THE MATH PURCHASE METHOD [ ] One 2014 Convention Car @ $89.90 $______[ ] My check is enclosed, made payable to “LCCA” with “2014 CC” on the memo line. [ ] Two 2014 Convention Cars @ $179.80 $______[ ] Bill this purchase to my credit card account. No.: ______Expiration: ______[ ] Illinois Residents: add 7.5% sales tax $______[ ] Discover [ ] MasterCard [ ] Visa Code: ______The 3 digits on back of your card [ ] S&H – add $10 per car $______Signature: ______Total (in U.S. funds) $______By my signature, I authorize LCCA to charge my account for the amount shown according to the terms and conditions cited herein. Once submitted, LCCA will consider this a firm order and not refundable.

Name: ______LCCA No.______

Shipping Address: ______City: ______State: ______Zip + 4: ______

Phone: ( ) ______e-mail: ______

Mail this order form (or a photocopy) to the best toy train club on the planet: LCCA Business Office • Dept 2014 CC/TLR-2-14 • P.O. Box 529 • Peru, IL 61354-0529 Order online at: www.lionelcollectors.org — go to “LCCA Store.” To submit an order by fax: 815-223-0791.

Contents LCCA Services, Notices, and Leadership

Business Office Officers Appointees LCCA Business Office services are limited to provid- Dennis DeVito, President Mike Battaglia ing or processing changes of address, changes of phone 570 Brookside Avenue Liaison to LCCA Business Office 2014 number, “make good” copies of The Lion Roars, applica- Algonquin, IL 60102-6824 1361 Deerfield Street tions for membership, replacement membership cards, 847-658-8776 or 574-870-0391 St. Joseph, MI 49085-9746 Convention reinstatements, death notices, Convention registration, [email protected] Preview 269-428-2847 and orders for club collectibles at the club’s website at Harry Overtoom [email protected] Page 16 www.lionelcollectors.org, by e-mail at: Immediate Past President [email protected], by fax at 815-223-0791, or by mail Larry A. Black at: P.O. Box 529, Peru, IL 61354-0529. 3409 Fleetwood Drive IT and Web Manager Lexington, KY 40502-3504 209 Denison Way TLR Copyright Notice 859-619-7730 Frankfort, KY 40601-0003 [email protected] The LCCA is an Illinois not-for-profit corporation. 502-472-8384 Copyright© 2014, Lionel Collectors Club of America. Al Kolis, President-elect [email protected] Helios 21 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be 4315 Saint Andrews Drive Barrie W. Braden Part 2 reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, Howell, MI 48843-7469 Editor, eTrack & Interchange Track Page 32 electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and 248-709-4137 10607 Serenity Sound recording for any purpose. [email protected] Magnolia, TX 77354-3244 Kenneth J. Kelley, Treasurer 281-252-8153 USPS Notices 10390 S. Sierrita Mtn Road, [email protected] The Lion Roars (USPS 11-994) and (ISSN No. 1079- PMB 71 President’s Report 2 0993) is published 5x/year in February, April, June, Jerry Calkins Tucson, AZ 85736-1442 Co-manager, LCCA Convention October and December by the Lionel Collectors Club of 520-299-3243 Podcasting 5 America, P.O. Box 529, Peru, IL 61354-0529. Subscription 11300 Little Ridge Court [email protected] Cheyenne, WY 82009-8373 Special Events Are Special 6 rate of $15 per year is paid through membership dues. Periodical postage paid at Peru, IL 61354-9801 and ad- Harry Hampson, Secretary 307-634-7674 Toy Trunk Railroad 13 ditional mailing offices. 2117 East Kendall Circle [email protected] Virginia Beach, VA 23451-1743 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: John R. (Bob) Carter, Jr. Treasurer’s Report 12 757-406-9636 Co-manager, LCCA Convention LCCA The Lion Roars [email protected] 2014 Convention Preview 16 P.O. Box 529 2205 Westridge Drive Peru, IL 61354-0529. Directors Plano, TX 75075-8314 Lionel News & Views 26 Roger Farkash 972-424-0678 LCCA and Lionel 2808 McGowan Street [email protected] The Tinplate Cannonball 30 Lionel L.L.C. is a registered trademark. Lionel copy- Dallas, TX 75203-4110 righted materials, including Lenny the Lion (a company Al Kolis, Manager, Special Events Helios 21 – Part 2 32 214-634-2965 Membership Chair trademark), are used with its permission. The LCCA is [email protected] not affiliated with Lionel or Lionel L.L.C. Opinions and 4315 Saint Andrews Drive A Lionel Puzzlement 35 comments made in by-lined columns in this publication David Hoverstock Howell, MI 48843-7469 248-709-4137 Weathered Locos 36 do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Board P.O. Box 17746 of Directors or the views of officers and appointed of- Tucson, AZ 85731-7746 [email protected] ficials; nor do they indicate a club endorsement of any 520-909-0722 Vincent Kolis On the Cover products mentioned. [email protected] Coordinator, JM Program An Johnny Ourso 4315 Saint Andrews Drive People to Contact 2400 N. Conestoga Avenue Howell, MI 48843-7469 excursion trip Secretary – Inquiries about membership lapses and admin- Tucson, AZ 85749-8275 810-623-6060 with NKP 765 istrative support. 520-749-3750 [email protected] up front will be Membership Chair – Joining LCCA and membership [email protected] questions. Mike H. Mottler a long-talked- Immediate Past President – Complaint against another Bill Schmeelk Editor, The Lion Roars about highlight member. 15 Birchwood Lane 22 Water Oak Drive Conway, AR 72034-3430 of the LCCA President – Always available and as a last resort. Hillsdale, NJ 07642-1303 201-497-8179 501-327-8747 2014 [email protected] [email protected] Convention. Cover photo by Rich Ahern Visit our website for timely club news: www.lionelcollectors.org

LCCA Annual Elections Dennis DeVito RM 6758 This year, the club will elect two Directors and a club Secre- tary. Thankfully, club members who have a “give something LCCA President and Fellow Member back to the club” attitude continue to offer time and talent in The LCCA continues to be successful for a number of volunteer service to the LCCA. Every candidate seeks an op- reasons, including the quality of the leadership corps and portunity to serve, and every candidate deserves your review. its responsiveness to the perspectives and priorities of club You may not wish to seek elective office, yet there are other members. ways to contribute to the club, add real value, and bring new All LCCA members have the opportunity to vote. Through ideas and new projects to the forefront which benefit all mem- voting, you and other members thoughtfully steer the destiny bers. Serving as a volunteer in a useful niche or as a member of the best toy train club on the planet. Votes cast for a club of an appointed team is a valuable learning experience within Officer, a Director, or a Constitutional change drive a crucial the train hobby we all love. Remember, you’ll get back more democratic process that affirms the course set by existing than you put in. I look forward to your participation in our leaders and develops future leaders. club at the level that seems right for you!

The Lion Roars 1 Dennis DeVito RM 6758 Report from our President

The View from Cleveland Negativity – Not My Style just returned from the Cleveland, OH, I recently read many negative articles about World’s Greatest Hobby on Tour our hobby and wondered why so many HIGHLIGHT I (WGHOT) show and felt refreshed by individuals, groups, and organizations are the vitality, enthusiasm, and strength fearful about the future. A wise man told me of our model train hobby. Attendance for over the weekend that as individuals (and “To the the two days was more than 27,000 folks, collectively as hobbyists) we can live up to mostly younger families with kids. Lots of our highest expectations. Likewise, if we doomsayers who kids! While all ages were represented, most are not careful, we could live down to our of the kids were younger than 10 years old. lowest fears. believe the The LCCA was there with our mini-layout I see the future of the hobby far more in our booth, which is a kid magnet. Our positively than many others. It’s full of hobby will not large display panel at the booth was a keep- potential and fun for all for years to come. sake photo background for smiling families I will continue living up to my expectations – it was a literal “Kodak Picture Spot” that experience of growth, meeting good people, enjoying a provided a photo opportunity. wonderful hobby, and accepting all it has to significant In the “good old days,” we approached offer. I accept the reality of vendor consoli- the hobby through the “Wish Books” of dation in the hobby, and more of that may growth, here’s Lionel® catalogs or by window shopping at be forthcoming. I accept that many of the a local hobby shop. Today’s families with things in the hobby that have been so de- my “in your face” youngsters approach the hobby differently, lightful to me will be limited going forward. make different purchases, and buy products As technology and production processes response – don’t through different techno-driven pathways. change, products and features on those proj- All Tech Considered ects will also change. I fully understand that believe your own Speaking of technology, Lionel has hit a many in the hobby are “de-collecting” for home run with its new LionChief™ system. personal, financial, or health reasons. These overly hyped The Lionel display in Cleveland was ALIVE factors have been emphasized as evidence of with kids. There were at least six train sets impending doom. I do not share this dispar- script. The hobby available for hands-on play by kids, and aging and caustic view. From the same data those trains were in constant operation all and info I can reach a different conclusion. is large and day long. The Lionel booth had more action At LCCA Conventions, Special Events, with these new sets than I have seen in the shows like the WGHOT and TrainFest, and growing larger.” past. It seemed that kids played with the in our increasing membership, I see almost remote-controlled trains far more than the unlimited growth. transformer-based sets. I always sensed this If you expect the future to mimic the past, system would succeed, yet I was surprised you may be disappointed. If you cherish the at the increased interest from kids as they exclusive niche many of us escape to, you used this product. may not see or experience positive growth. So what, you may ask. Yes, there were lots Since a large portion of us are serious of kids and families – most were spending a modelers, we are into high-tech, lots of ex- day out but were really not serious hobby- pansive scenery, large layouts, technology- ists. How does this reflect on us, the LCCA, driven wireless control systems, and highly or the hobby? My take-away from this show detailed top-of-the-line product. This is the was that our hobby is as alive as it ever has way we see the hobby. been. There is still enormous interest in To the doomsayers who believe the hobby trains and many folks in the general popula- will not experience significant growth, tion are looking into our hobby. And while here’s my “in your face” response – don’t not a direct correlation, this is reflected in believe your own overly hyped script. The our club, which is growing in membership, hobby is large and growing larger. There’s strong in all the right structural areas, self- far more going on than what exists in your funding without need for outside advertis- mind. ing support, and offering a great value for I saw the future in Cleveland, and other club dues paid. Our members continue to renew members see it at our events. The future is memberships in record numbers, purchase plain to see, and it’s right in front of us. It our club products, and support our Special exists in every adult or child who asks about Events and other programs. The Lion Roars 2 Report from our President

our hobby. It exists in every person who valuable resources – your time and talent – and also posted for timely reference on the shows interest in a starter set. It exists in to help the club and the hobby. club’s website. Discussions and decisions by every person who asks why newer track sys- Product Updates the BOD chart our course, and members can tems are better than tubular track. It exists in By now all members who previously or- follow the action in these club publications. every parent who shares with their young- dered the Goliath Standard gauge loco, its Indianapolis, ster the wonder of the Polar Express train or Showroom Cars, and the Prospector train set Here We Come the awe of the Lone Ranger set. have received those products. The response Our 2014 Convention information is includ- However, if your vision of the future is has been wonderful! Those who ordered ed with this issue. I am excited about this tightly focused on the finer technical points those products were not disappointed. There Convention because of its middle-of-the- of the Legacy™ system or the operating have been many positive comments about country location, the fantastic tours includ- features of your new high-end engine, then the voice of Lou Caponi digitized in the ing an excursion run aboard the 765, and the you are in a relatively small, limited audi- sound system. You can hear this recording at absolutely unique post-Convention Special ence that holds onto a restrictive perspec- the club’s website. Event — the Brickyard 400 race at the In- tive. Ditto other niches. One can look at the By the time you read this report, the Texas dianapolis Motor Speedway. Of course, I’m hobby as resurging, but in a form few of us Special two-diesel Cow and Calf Set and ac- looking forward to the social aspects of the expected. It is growing in a way you might companying Mint Car should be shipped to Convention, seeing many friends, and cruis- remember from the good old days when those who ordered them. The 2013 Conven- ing the aisles of the weekend train show. you ran the Plywood Central or the Front tion Car has been shipped. The Coal Train Room Limited for a day or two and then put Set should be delivered – the last project TICKET NOTICE: your trains away. It is growing as newbies of the late Lou Caponi. While we were not TICKETS FOR THE come into the hobby on a regular basis. For able to ship these items in December 2013, NICKLE PLATE STEAMER the most part, prewar, postwar, MPC, other our vendors were able to get them out by the 765 ARE STRICTLY LIMITED dated products, and what we consider col- end of January. Thanks to those members TO 500. TICKETS FOR lectibles are not of great interest to them. who ordered these wonderful products! THE BRICKYARD 400 ARE STRICTLY LIMITED TO 100. So I suggest you have two options – con- Remember to order the Monon Operat- tinue to see the hobby through the lens you ing Boxcar, which is the 2014 Convention have and see clones of yourself with your Car. Lionel has said that if we would set an According to our past practice, club mem- interests. Or totally revolutionize your think- earlier cutoff date it would be possible to bers will have the first opportunity to buy ing and open your mind to see the hobby as have this car in members’ hands in Sep- these tickets on a first-come, first-serve more than an exclusive club with an aging tember. We have taken that step forward, basis. Register now or before April 1 for population whose goal is to replicate them- pre-ordered this product from Lionel, and the best opportunity to get these tickets. selves and their individual viewpoints and locked-in that delivery date. Any tickets not purchased by members after preferences. I choose the latter. April 2 may be offered for sale to others. HEADS UP: THE CUTOFF DATE FOR These bookend events at the beginning and This column is neither a criticism of some ORDERS IS EARLIER THIS YEAR – end of the Convention offer diverse options. nor praise for others. I have and will con- APRIL 1. Choose the tours that capture your interest tinue to embrace all model railroaders, all and fit your time schedule. Whether you gauges, all ages, and all areas of interest. Read All about It select a few tours and events or intend to But I also see the future as potentially explo- Reports by the club’s Secretary of recent- attend all of them, register early! sive, albeit in a direction I did not anticipate past LCCA BOD meetings will be published just a few years ago. New track systems, in the next issue of the Interchange Track easy-to-use kid-favored control systems, and high quality low and mid-range sets at relatively reasonable prices have laid the President’s Scoreboard for 2013-14 groundwork for growth. If you understand and believe the message in this column, Activity Goal Accomplished Status go help a newbie, give a child an LCCA To Date Junior Membership (and get a personal- Special Events 2,300 members touched 1,125 Goal Increased ized billboard and insert as a reward), give a train item or set to an interested person, talk up the hobby, join a discussion group, Number of 30 by July, 2014 36 Goal already exceded! volunteer to staff a LCCA Special Event, Special Events Always seeking and see the renewed interest for yourself. To additional SEs.

summarize, live up to your highest hobby expectations even though others may live Reinstatement of 400 174 Need current members down to a limited vision. Invest your most Members to assist with this task.

The Lion Roars 3 Something Old, vention registered members will receive the celebration of LCCA’s 45th anniversary Something New fourth die-cast NASCAR auto free. year. That product may be considered a As is our custom, we will provide a free companion car because it is color-matched Heads up: A similar Evans Autoloader Convention Advance Registration Gift for as a “set.” The four accompanying NAS- (rendered in reverse colors) will be offered members who register early and make guest CAR autos for this car will be unique and for separate sale later in the year in accommodations at the host hotel – a motor- different from the four autos for the On-site ized unit. Convention Car. Is that ultra cool, or what? We’ll also offer a distinctive Lionel Refer to the ad about these club- product as the Convention sponsored products in this issue of On-site Car – an Evans-type TLR and/or visit our website for Autoloader with a plastic more info about the features flatcar base and a stamped of the On-site Convention sheet metal superstructure, Car, the 45th Anniversary plus four accompany- Car, and our innovative ing Lionel-produced purchasing/gifting plan. 1/43-scale, die-cast This year, members who NASCAR automobiles register but do not attend the on board. The Autoloader Convention will be able to can be purchased on site. The purchase the On-site Convention NASCAR autos will be available Car and the 45th Anniversary Car. at the Convention, but distribution of them will have a new twist. Be sure to In closing, enjoy yourself, your attend the Lionel Seminar where all Con- family, your trains, and life.

Make your plans now for this year’s LCCA Convention in Indianapolis.

The Lion Roars 4 Derek Thomas RM 31021 A New Technology - Podcasting

or as long as I can remember, I’ve been The podcasts enabled LCCA members who fascinated with toy trains. My love for could not attend the Convention to get al- trains started at a young age. I grew up most real-time access to the people involved F only 200 yards from the Conrail tracks in the Convention. HIGHLIGHT: – formerly NYC – and from that time on I The second event was the fall TCA Train was interested in trains. Meet at York, PA – also a landmark event in “Guests in the Fast forward to Christmas 1992, when at the world of O-gauge-related media. Tech- the age of eight I received my first Lionel® nology allowed us to go to that train show, first year included train set, the Western Pacific Feather River record interviews, and almost instantly Service Station Set. That train was the start upload the audio to the Notch 6 website. Howard Hitchcock of a journey which lasted 22 years. We were able to break the news about the Let me jump ahead another 18 years. After Lionel Vision Line Big Boy less than five and Mike Reagan completing a degree in Communications minutes after it was announced by Lionel and Radio Broadcasting in 2007, I moved LLC at the TCA Museum. Less than 24 to Lafayette, IN, with my wife and began hours later, Notch 6 released a full interview from Lionel, working for a group of radio stations in that with Lionel’s Mike Reagan who explained area. With this background information, you the new features and details on that locomo- Andy Edelman can connect the dots and understand how I tive. Podcast technology can quickly deliver came up with the idea for a podcast dedi- news to O-gauge fans around the world. from MTH, cated to O-gauge trains. Every month since then, we have conducted Notch 6: Free O-gauge interviews with many newsmakers in the Carl Swanson Radio on Demand O-gauge world who influence the hobby. Guests in the first year included Howard When I use the word “podcast,” many peo- Hitchcock and Mike Reagan from Lionel, from Classic Toy ple give me a blank look and ask, “What’s Andy Edelman from MTH®, Carl Swanson that?” Let me briefly explain. A podcast from Classic Toy Trains, Angela Trotta Trains, Angela is like having your favorite radio program Thomas, John Schmid from Project Roar available for listening 24/7/365 throughout a Publishing, and many others. Listeners year through your computer. Visit the web- Trotta Thomas, received insights from those with experience site of the program and click on the episode in the hobby, learned their tips and tricks of you want to hear. Podcasting has exploded John Schmid from the trade, and explored depths of knowledge in recent years with the growth of portable about the hobby we love so much. Project Roar media players, and just about anyone can now set up a home recording studio and Plans for 2014 share audio programs via the Web with the For 2014 the plan is to continue making the Publishing, and world. show bigger and better with each episode. One feature that I’m very excited about is So why did I start a show specifically dedi- many others.” a new segment that will follow along with cated to the world of O-gauge trains? The my building a section of the LCCA/Lio- short answer is, to deliver timely content nel Modular Railroad. My module will be directly to listeners from the source. I feel incorporated along with others as a part of that the hobby has lacked for years the ca- the large modular layout to be unveiled at pability to offer almost instant access to the the LCCA 2014 Convention in Indianapolis information and newsmakers who that drive this summer. I’m excited about describ- the O-gauge hobby industry. The Notch 6 ing my experiences to fellow LCCA club Podcasts change the dynamics of informa- members and sharing what I learned during tion flow and access. the process. I’ve also lined up some great Two Major Podcasts interviews and will provide full coverage of In the past 12 months, Notch 6 has provided that Convention. coverage of two significant events in the I hope you’ll take a moment to visit the O-gauge world. The first was a full week of website at www.notch6.com. There’s noth- shows from the site of the LCCA 2014 Con- ing special to download and no software vention in Chattanooga, TN. That adventure to install in your computer. Click on the was the first time any media source covered episode that you’d like to hear, turn up the the Convention from start to finish. Each speakers, and enjoy the show! night listeners heard a daily recap from Spe- cial Events Manager Al Kolis. Notch 6 also talked with many of the keynote speakers who participated in the events of that week.

The Lion Roars 5 Al Kolis HM 15902 Special Events Are Special

hope you and your family are having a healthy, happy, and Lionel® train-filled Review: SEs in Colorado New Year. I invite you to start 2014 by Last Year and This I attending some of our fun and family- oriented LCCA Special Events in an area LCCA partnered with the Colorado Toy HIGHLIGHT: near you. The program continues to flourish, Train Group, LLC (CTTG) for their tenth and we are starting on the right track with co-sponsored Special Event in late 2013. many unique SEs in various cities around The LCCA-CTTG Toy Train Auction in “If you are our country. We held 11 SEs in the first two Westminster, CO, on November 16 and 17 weeks of December! Members had fun at was the first double-digit LCCA Special interested in events in South Carolina, New York, New Event for LCCA with a single organization. Jersey, Pennsylvania, California, Arkansas, hosting a LCCA North Carolina, Iowa, and Florida. Wel- come to all new members who joined our Special Event club during SEs held last December and in January! in your area, please contact me by phone at Photograph provided by Steve Fowler 248-709-4137 CTTG is a group of 12 LCCA members, who formed their group to advocate the toy and discuss Photograph by Greg Dorsey train hobby, through buying, collecting, The LCCA/Lionel FasTrack™ Modular operating, selling, and trading toy trains. your idea.” Railroad initiative continues to grow and The partnership between LCCA and CTTG build momentum. LCCA member Greg is a logical extension of their missions, since Dorsey (RM 31201) built an entire modu- both organizations are focused on toy trains, lar railroad on his own. A pending article kids, and opening the hobby to the public. in TLR will show his transportable layout As background history, revert back two and along with other modular layouts built a half years when then-president Al Kolis by members who followed the published (HM 15092) visited Denver and talked template – including Henry Snyder (RM with LCCA members David Gahagen (RM 30509) and Bob Eberley (RM 15949) with 20782), Jim Cathcart (RM 14022), and a group of hobbyists in Palmetto, FL. I hope Steve Fowler (RM 26496). Jerry Calkins their examples will inspire other members to (RM 9418) arranged the meeting so that build modules according to this pattern. Al could discuss having a one-day Special LCCA’s current membership campaign is Event in the greater Denver area to bring proving to be successful. Participating new LCCA members together between conven- members and existing club members/spon- tions. This discussion led to what became sors will receive personalized billboard “An Evening of Fun with Toy Trains,” held inserts and a 100% made-in-America LCCA later that year on November 5, 2011. billboard frame. During the same discussion, CTTG dis- This is your club – the more you contribute, cussed their upcoming toy train auction, the more you receive. Recent SE hosts John and Al offered to have LCCA co-sponsor Rinaldi (RM 21735), Mike Mottler (RM CTTG’s first auction in the greater Denver 12394), Bob Ver Hoef (RM 20588), Rich area on May 21, 2011. and Kathy Dissosway (RM 28158), Roger Since then, LCCA and CTTG have co- Farkash (RM 27269), Henry Snyder (RM sponsored ten Special Events – “A Model 30509), and Angela Trotta Thomas (RM Railroad Expo”; “An Evening of Fun with 13961) will confirm the fun factor built-in Toy Trains” (twice); and seven toy train to a SE. Hosting a Special Event is a great auctions. These Special Events brought 327 experience that every club member should LCCA members together and offered club try once. Host an open house starring your members a variety of toy train activities Lionel trains, get better acquainted with along the Front Range of Colorado. visiting LCCA members in your area and beyond, and be an ambassador for the club The tenth Special Event brought 28 LCCA and the hobby. members together, and they vigorously

The Lion Roars 6 Special Events Are Special

bid on 800+ lots of toy trains, accessories, Lionel trains with period objects that evoca- If you would like to donate time, money, or buildings, and layout vehicles. LCCA pro- tively freeze time. LCCA thanks Angela and gifts to GGLRC for next year’s event, con- vided door prizes for this SE. Mike Burns Bob Thomas for introducing the magic of tact John Rinaldi at 650-279-8615. United (RM 30449) won the door prize on Satur- Lionel trains to hundreds of gallery visitors Airlines will sponsor similar events next day, while Al Rowland (RM 12932) won the during the past holiday season. Discover year in San Francisco, Chicago, Washing- door prize on Sunday. more information about Angela’s Lionel- ton Dulles Airport, and Pittsburgh. To get LCCA and CTTG will co-sponsor their 8th related artwork at her website: involved with this worthwhile endeavor toy train auction on April 26 and 27, 2014. [email protected]. in these cities, contact the United Airline The auction list will be available by March Fantasy Flight program at http://unitedfantasyflight.com/. 1. Periodically check the LCCA website, as Review: SE in California more LCCA-CTTG Special Events are be- Here’s a big “Thank you” to John Rinaldi, ing discussed for presentation in 2014. in December the Golden Gate Lionel Railroad Club, Text by Steve Fowler United Airlines, and Lionel for their efforts On Saturday, December 7, LCCA members and contributions in support of this very John Rinaldi (RM 12735), Mike Desing worthwhile cause. (RM 3263), Russ Hora (RM 30832), and Review: SE in South Photos provided by John Rinaldi Carolina in December others in the Golden Gate Lionel Railroad Club (GGLRC) participated in United Air- line’s Fantasy Flight Event at San Francis- Review: SE in Michigan LCCA member Angela Trotta Thomas pro- co’s International Airport. John and GGLRC moted Lionel trains and her original Lionel members were present at the United Airlines in December artwork during the Coco Vivo Art Gallery departure gate where a full 747 jet took exhibition in Charleston, SC, December 6 children with life threatening illnesses along On Saturday December 7, LCCA sponsored through 30, 2013. She showed new paint- with their families on an hour-long flight a Special Event in conjunction with a hobby ings as part of her “Lionel Toy Train Memo- and returned to a terminal decorated as the auction at Bob’s Hobby and Collector Shop ries” exhibit and was present for the opening North Pole. in Watervliet, MI. The doors opened at 9 on Friday, December 6. She autographed the a.m. and the auction began at 10 o’clock. Lionel boxcars and catalogs that featured Guests began arriving as early as 8:30 from her artwork. Angela exhibited a collection of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. More original oils depicting nostalgic toy train art. than 125 people registered as bidders for the items, and all 377 lots were sold. Two manufacturers displayed and demon- strated their products. Jim Kaiser and his wife showed how their M.A.A.S. Metal Pol- ish can be used for cleaning and restoring track as well as cleaning cars and locomo- Prior to departure, the families experienced tives. Dave Williams brought his wonder- the magic of Lionel trains running on ful display of “Magic Water” products. GGLRC’s large, highly detailed, portable train layout. Lionel LLC donated Lionel engineer hats. Several Lionel train sets were given to selected children and their families. The LCCA provided a LCCA Special Event commemorative pin for each child. The kids were stuffed with candies, holiday cookies, and plenty of drinks from GGLRC’s limited- edition Christmas gondolas. The children and their families enjoyed the holiday spirit and the sights, smells, and sounds of Lionel trains running on the GGLRC layout. Mike Battaglia (RM 19257) coordinated this event and held several drawings for vari- Photos provided by Angela Trotta Thomas ous Lionel cars. A special guest in a festive An exciting Christmas window scene fea- red suit helped out and held court in front tured the Angela Trotta Thomas Signature of the 27x39-feet Lionel train layout on the Express toy train set traveling through a second floor of the hobby shop. Bob Taylor, holiday snowy village. This year’s window owner of Bob’s Hobby Shop, was a gracious layout was bigger than last year’s display. host and provided free coffee, cookies, and Angela’s latest artwork draws on memo- refreshments for club members. ries of Lionel trains during a simpler time. Text and photo by Mike Battaglia

She creates still life paintings that combine The Lion Roars 7

Review: SE in New York Sunday December 8. LCCA members and the general public appreciated the NJ Hi- Review: SE in Arkansas in December Railers’ highly detailed train layout. in December The LCCA was proud to be a part of the Everyone also enjoyed the NJ Hi-Railer’s Nassau Lionel Operating Engineers (NLOE) Standard gauge Lionel layout which was Open House event held on December 7. The previously owned by late night TV show LCCA members, families, and friends who personality and avid Lionel train enthusiast, attended this event had fun and absorbed the Tom Snyder. After he passed away, his life- hospitality offered by the entire NLOE or- long companion Pam Burke donated this ganization. Members enjoyed Lionel trains layout to the club. running on the largest operating O-gauge layout on Long Island. The This fifth annual event remained the longest- NLOE’s duration activity on the club’s SE calendar 80x35-feet (18 days) and also retained the record for layout with visitor attendance at a club-sponsored SE. its new The “All Aboard – Lionels at Laman” animated holiday train operating exhibit was hosted rocket by Laman Library in North Little Rock, AR, launch from December 12 through 31. pad was in Staffed by volunteer hobbyists led by Mike constant Mottler (RM 12394), Craig Gerard (RM 15198), and Robert Lewis (RM 15198), this event attracted 5,522 guests to a 14x24-feet, two-level layout with TMCC™ and conven- Hundreds of kids, their families, and friends tional trains in motion on three main lines, marveled at the club’s 185-feet-long, highly many action accessories in constant use. detailed operating train layout. The food prepared by Chef Vinnie was enjoyed by all. The LCCA presented NJ Hi-Railers co-own- er Ruth Horning with her first Lionel train, a LCCA Lionel Lines switcher engine from our 2013 Convention in Chattanooga, TN. operation and attracted a large crowd. The NLOE sold raffle tickets for the opportunity to win a small operating toy train layout. Thanks to the entire NLOE organization for their gracious hospitality and inviting our members to attend this fun event. They in- vited me into the control tower to run some of the trains. The NLOE group is a great group of family-oriented, men, women, and children with a passion for Lionel trains. For more information about this club, visit their website at www.nloe.org. A highlight of the event was a presentation Stay tuned for future announcements about from LCCA to Lionel’s Joe Fea (RM 32043) the NLOE’s LCCA/Lionel FasTrack Modu- and his wife Janet. Joe recently retired from lar Railroad. NLOE plans to take this layout his position as Director of Special Events LCCA provided a M&St.L train set to an to future events. for Lionel after seven years of service. Joe observant young visitor who earned a 100% also played a vital role in developing the correct score on a scavenger-hunt-type LCCA/Lionel FastTrack Modular Railroad model railroad quiz based on features of the Review: SE in New Jersey and Special Events. Joe received a plaque layout. Jennifer received the train set as a in December recognizing his tenure at Lionel and support serendipitous Christmas present! of the LCCA. Bernie Callen (RM 31293), Text and photographs by Mike Mottler LCCA members were a part of an open Jim DiMeo, Ruth Horning, and all NJ Hi- house holiday season event at the New Railers earned our thanks for hosting this

Jersey Hi-Railers Club in Paterson, NJ, on fun, worthwhile event.

The Lion Roars 8 The LCCA was present with a train table Review: SE in North Review: SE in Pennsylva- donated by Scenic Express® for continuous Carolina in December nia in December hands-on demonstrations of “How To Get Started with Lionel Trains.” Kids of all ages More than 225 people including 33 LCCA The “Locomotion Weekend” presented by had fun all day long setting up and operating members and their families attended the Lionel LLC and sanctioned by LCCA at the the Lionel Thomas the Tank™ starter set. ninth annual Christmas Open House Train Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, PA, The kids assembled and placed Lionel Fas- Party at the home of Rich and Kathy Dis- on December 14-15 was a mega Special Track on the table, put the Thomas engine sosway (RM 28158) in Lewisville, NC, on Event. The centerpiece of this event was and Annie and Clarabel passenger cars on Saturday, December 14. Visitors celebrated the museum’s own Miniature Railroad the track, and then operated the Lionel trans- the Christmas season with long-time LCCA and Village, newly reopened for the 2013 former by themselves. We introduced Lionel members and several new members. Thanks season complete with new additions. Other trains to a new generation of kids. Several to the generosity of guests, 550 pounds operating toy train layouts of all sizes and new members joined our club during this of food was collected and donated to a types (DARE, TCA Kids Club, Pitt Divi- weekend event. LCCA thanks Lionel, Patty Winston-Salem Food Pantry. sion Hi-Railers, etc.) were in action. Many Rogers, and the staff at the Carnegie Science It was raining outside on the day of the of the layouts were interactive for hands- Center for making this weekend a memo- party, but inside six bags of Department 56® on activity with kids. Rare items from the rable, FUN event! snow fell on the layout. Christmas acces- Lionel Archive were on view to the public ® in museum display cases for the first time sories from Department 56, Lemax , and Review: SE in Iowa Miller Engineering® completed the winter outside Lionel’s facilities. scenes. The layout wound its way through in December three rooms of the house. Much of the benchwork, mountains, and bridges (includ- LCCA members Bob Ver Hoef (RM 20588) ing a magnificent six-feet-long arch bridge) and Pam Richardson (RM 29244) hosted were built by Vernon Peachey of Model RR another great Christmas season Open House Custom Benchwork. The layout contains event on Saturday, December 14 in Leland, a number of scratch-built buildings made IA. This year’s event was even larger than by Richard Krieg including an outstanding last year’s activity. Bob hosted a toy train roundhouse with several new Lionel NS swap meet in a building across the street. Heritage SD70ACe engines in the bays. The Bob and Pam served free coffee, cookies, roundhouse was surrounded by beautiful and cider along with door prizes provided murals of the Grand Canyon, Zion National by the LCCA. This successful SE attracted Park, and Bryce Canyon painted by Elise coverage by local newspapers and TV Curti. newscasts.

The layout included a programmed thun- derstorm followed by 200 stars appearing in the night sky. The Disney scene featured a re-creation of a fireworks show at Disney World. The Scorpion roller coaster model kit designed by Coaster Dynamix (contain- ing about 400 pieces) was Kathy’s birthday present to Rich. A huge buffet rounded out a great evening of fun for train fans young and old. Text by Rich Dissosway Photograph by David Trompower

The Lion Roars 9 Asher (age seven), a child from the North billboard frame and billboard inserts, and Iowa Make-A-Wish Foundation, was the the operating mini-layout designed and built Review: SE in California Honorary Engineer for the day. Asher loves by TW TrainWorx® of Dallas, TX. in February trains. The LCCA donated a new Lionel starter set to him, and he was so excited he LCCA members John Rinaldi, Mike Desing, wouldn’t let go of the train box! Bob and Russ Hora and the Golden Gate Lionel Pam earned mega-thanks from LCCA for Railroad Club hosted a train show in San co-hosting this fun and worthwhile event in Jose, CA, on Sunday, February 9. Members the heartland. enjoyed the 17x34-feet GGLRRC layout and the LCCA/Lionel FasTrack Modular Photos provided by Ray Hansen layout. A report will follow in the April is- sue of TLR. Review: SE in Florida in December Preview: SE in New York in February Club member Henry Snyder (RM 30509) and a group of local train collectors in LCCA invites members to attend the 23rd Jacksonville, FL, hosted LCCA members, annual WNYRHS Winter Train and Toy their families, and friends at a SE featur- Show in Hamburg, NY, on February 15 and ing their Christmas toy train display at the 16. The LCCA will be represented by Mike Museum of Science and History (MOSH) Battaglia during this show. Visit the LCCA in Jacksonville, FL, from December 11 table during this club-sanctioned Special through December 28 but closed Christmas Event. LCCA members who attend will day. Saturday, December 21, was designated receive a LCCA SE commemorative pin and as “LCCA Day” at the museum, and LCCA We were located next to Lionel’s operating an un-cut limited-edition LCCA billboard members who showed their membership layout and display. Club volunteers Roger insert. This family-friendly train show card at the door were admitted free into the Farkash, Bob “Indiana” Carter (RM 6620), will include toy trains, operating layouts, museum and train exhibit. Barrie Braden (RM 560), Dave Miller (RM 21985), Sal Gambino, Jr. (RM 12681), and collectible toys, dolls and miniatures, and Alan Szirony (RM 17601) represented the railroadiana. LCCA during these highly attended train This event will be held at the Event Cen- show events and earned our “Thanks!” for ter and Expo Hall on the Fairgrounds in their involvement. If you are in the Michi- Hamburg on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 gan area, the LCCA will be included in the p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. upcoming WGHOT show in Novi, MI, on Admission: Adults $7/each, children 12 and February 22 and 23. under admitted FREE. Free parking. For more information contact Mike Battaglia by e-mail at [email protected] or Review: SE in Georgia by phone at 269-428-2847. in January Participating LCCA members received a LCCA Special Event commemorative pin Preview: SE in Virginia and an un-cut sheet of LCCA billboard in- in February serts. Several lucky club members won door prizes donated by the LCCA. Our sincere thanks go to Henry, local train enthusiasts, Club member Brad Rock (RM 30864) and the MOSH for hosting this wonderful will represent the LCCA at the upcoming holiday season event. This family-friendly Greenberg Train and Toy Show in Virginia event touched kids (of all ages) who enjoyed Beach, VA, on February 22 and 23. Meet and experienced the magic of Lionel trains. Brad at the LCCA table and collect a LCCA SE commemorative pin and billboard insert. There will be several toy train operating Review: SEs at WGHOT layouts and displays. Show hours will be Shows in America On Saturday, January 25, the LCCA 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. This event will returned to the Southern Museum of Civil be held at the Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19th Street, in Virginia Beach. LCCA participated in the World’s Greatest War and Locomotive History for their fourth Free parking. Admission: $8/adult (valid for Hobby on Tour shows in Cleveland, OH annual “Trains, Trains, Trains!” event. both days) with kids under 12 admitted free. (January 4 and 5), Houston, TX (January 11 The LCCA presented a Lionel train set to For more information about this show, visit and 12) and Philadelphia, PA (January 18 Richard Banz, Director of the museum, for www.GreenbergShows.com or contact Brad and 19). Our booth included club-sponsored use as a raffle prize to a lucky visitor to the by phone at 757-486-0486 (home) or 757- products, LCCA’s 100% made in America museum. 581-1011 (cell).

The Lion Roars 10 Hours will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on memorate the Steam Era, saved the locomo- Preview: SE in Georgia Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on tive from a scrap yard. In 1969, university in March Sunday. Attractions will include the LCCA/ students set out to restore the locomotive, Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad in action, but were unable to complete the project. In conjunction with the Autism Speaks more than 150 vendor tables, six operat- In 1983, No. 1225 was moved to Owosso Organization and the Southern Museum of ing layouts, as well as the famous Tampa and the restoration project resumed. The Civil War and Locomotive History in Ken- Lego Group and the S-scale Disaster. Bob locomotive returned to excursion service nesaw, GA, LCCA will co-host a special Eberley and a group of local members and in 1988. This train was used for animation day for club members and also for families train enthusiasts will demonstrate their modeling for the popular Castle Rock Enter- affected by autism on March 1 from 9 a.m. newly constructed LCCA FasTrack Modu- tainment animated feature film, “The Polar to noon. Three different types of model train lar Railroad layout. See it in action at its Express.” LCCA members/participants will layouts for children of different ages and public debut. Free parking. Admission: $8 enjoy two photo runbys, and each ticketed needs will be provided by Lionel, LCCA, Adults, children under 13 admitted free. member will receive a LCCA billboard and the museum. Other features include LCCA members will be admitted for $6 by frame and billboard insert to commemorate a sensory-friendly room with puzzles and showing their valid club membership card. this inaugural run. If you have not already activities and showings of the museum’s For additional information contact Steven registered and paid for this event, there may Great Locomotive Chase movie. Staff and at 941-321-5847 or by e-mail at stevenhab- be a few seats available. Please contact me volunteers from Autism Speaks will be pres- [email protected] or visit their website: directly at 248-709-4137 for openings. ent during this event and offer information www.realrail.org. about local resources available to families. Preview: SE in Michigan Preview: SE in Alabama in March in March

LCCA members will take part in the inau- LCCA member George Nelson (RM 13073) gural run of “Railyard Productions - 1225 and a group of local train hobbyists in the Return to Rails Excursion” aboard the Pere Foley, AL, area invite all LCCA members, Marquette 1225 steam locomotive. The their families, and friends to attend a two- round trip is from Owossa to Clare, MI. day train show on March 22 and 23.

Photograph provided by SMCW&LH LCCA members who attend this interactive, Lionel-train-filled SE will see the wonder- fully restored “General” steam locomotive made famous in the Great Train Chase of 1862 during the Civil War. Tickets are $7.50 for adults, $6.50 for seniors (60+), and Photograph by Kevin Burkholder $5.50 for children (age four through 12). The Pere Marquette 1225 operated by the Autistic visitors will receive a $1 discount. Photograph provided by SWARM The courtesy discount will also be extended Steam Railroading Institute in Owosso to LCCA members. Reservations for tickets will be the head-end power this excursion. Formerly the Fairhope Train Show, this and further information will be available be- The locomotive is currently undergoing a event is now sponsored by the Caboose ginning January 8 on the museum’s website federally mandated 1,472-day inspection, Club and SW Alabama Railroad Modelers at southernmuseum.org. Reservations are but is scheduled to make its inaugural run (SWARM). Admission will be $2/person, recommended. For more information on this from Owasso to Clare on Saturday, March and children under 10 years old, members event, contact Al Kolis at 248-709-4137, 15. The train will depart Owosso at 9 a.m. of the military, and fire and police first Dena Bush at 770-427-2117 extension 3184, and arrive in Clare at 11:30 a.m. Riders will responders will be admitted free. The nearby or e-mail Dena at [email protected]. have a three-hour layover in Clare to enjoy Foley Railroad Museum will be a part of the Clare Irish Festival, which will coincide this train show, and its O-gauge layout will with our excursion. The train will depart be in operation. Preview: SE in Florida Clare at 2:30 p.m. running backwards to Show hours will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sat- in March Alma, where it will be turned for a return urday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. The trip to Owosso at 6 p.m. train show will be held at the Foley Civic RealRail will hold its 36th Annual Train and Lima Locomotive Works built No. 1225 in Center, 407 E. Laurel Avenue, in downtown Model Railroad Expo on March 1 and 2 at October 1941 for the Pere Marquette. In Foley, AL. Contact George by phone at the Manatee Convention Center, 1 Haben 1957, officials at Michigan State University, 251-990-9144 or by e-mail at georgedona@ Boulevard, Palmetto, FL. seeking an outdoor monument to com- bellsouth.net.

The Lion Roars 11

Preview: SE in Preview: SE in Illinois PREVIEW: SE in North Carolina in March in April Colorado in April A RED CARPET EVENT Plan to attend the LCCA Regional Train LCCA and CTTG will co-sponsor an eighth Toy Train Auction on April 26 and Our friends at Lionel LLC invite LCCA Meet in Rockford, IL, on Sunday, April 6. 27 in Westminster, CO. There will be members to their Second Annual Red Carpet Admission will be free to LCCA members 700+ lots of three-rail O-gauge toy trains Warehouse Sale event at their facility in and their families, $5 for non-members, or and two-rail O-scale model trains on the Concord, NC, (near Charlotte) on March $5 per family. Join co-hosts Jerry Dangelo auction list. 22. On Friday evening (March 21), we will (CM 67) and Brady Thor (RM 123) and gather for a Dutch treat dinner with the team meet other LCCA members at this Special from Lionel. Event. Vendor tables are available at this writing but are expected to fill fast. Lionel promises to have discounted prices on dozens of products on sale. Show your LCCA membership card at the door as a pre-requisite for entering this event. Lionel Railroad Club members will also be invited to participate, but the event will not be open to the public. Text and photo provided by Steve Fowler

Preview: LCCA Convention in Indiana in July

The LCCA 2014 Convention will be held July 21-26 at the Marriott East Hotel in Indianapolis, IN. Refer to the Convention section of this issue of TLR for complete Photograph provided by Jerry Dangelo information, the Convention Registra- Early reservations are highly suggested. tion Form, and the host hotel Reservation The Train Meet will open at 8 a.m. for Form. registration and set-up only. The hall will Convention co-hosts Bob “Indy” Carter be open to LCCA members only from 9 and Jerry Calkins (RM 9418) have to 10 a.m. The public will be admitted prepared many fun and exciting events at 10 o’clock. This event will be held at for our upcoming Convention. Lionel Hoffman House/St. Moritz Room inside trains, a NKP 765 steam locomotive train the Holiday Inn at 7550 East State Street ride, two other train excursions, Lionel (Business Rte. 20). Contact Jerry or NASCAR products, a vintage aviation Brady at [email protected] or restoration center, and more. This conven- The Lionel/LCCA FasTrack Modular [email protected]. tion will have it all, so plan to attend. I Railroad will be in operation. This will be a guarantee it will be FUN! great opportunity to do some Lionel shop- Take note of the July 27 NASCAR Brick- ping. Take the kids along so they can see Preview: SE in yard 400 race event at the Indianapolis Lionel’s own operating toy train layouts in Pennsylvania in April Motor Speedway; it will be an event of a action. A huge selection of Lionel O-gauge lifetime! train sets, refurbished products, track pieces, LCCA members, their families, and friends scratch and dent items, plus new NASCAR are all invited to attend a casual, informal As you can see, the LCCA Special Events die-cast cars will be available along with get together on Wednesday evening April program continues to grow and evolve. limited quantities of special-priced door 23 at Smokey Bones Restaurant and Bar in There is no set formula for an event. If busters. Cash and credit cards accepted. York, PA. This will be a Dutch treat dinner there isn’t a LCCA Special Event in your This promises to be a successful sequel to event starting at 6:30 p.m. Smokey Bones area, I encourage you and your friends to last year’s event. If you’re in the area, drop is located at 1301 Kenneth Road in York. fill that void and host one. Please contact by and say hello to the folks at Lionel and Phone: 717-846-3760. Meet LCCA of- me by e-mail at [email protected] to the LCCA and wander through the rows of ficers and directors, volunteers, and other discuss your idea. orange and blue boxes at the Lionel ware- LCCA members from around the country Photos not otherwise credited house at 6301 Performance Drive, Concord, who will be in town then for a major train provided by Al Kolis NC. The facility is near Charlotte Motor show. Got questions? Contact Al Kolis at Speedway. Phone: 855-552-1960. 248-790-4137.

The Lion Roars 12 2014 Calendar of Upcoming Special Events

February 15 & 16 – Hamburg, NY LCCA will be on site for the 23rd Annual Winter Train and Toy Show presented by WNYRHS February 22 & 23 – Detroit, MI LCCA will be present during the WGHOT Show February 22 & 23 – Virginia Beach, VA LCCA will be present at the Greenberg Train and Toy Show and represented by Brad Stone March 1 – Kennesaw, GA LCCA will participate in an event at the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History March 1 & 2 – Palmetto, FL The newly constructed LCCA/Lionel FasTrack Modular Railroad built by Bob Eberley and local hobbyists will be in action at the 36th Annual Train and Model Railroad Expo March 15 – Owossa and Clare, MI Inaugural run of Pere Marquette 1225 Steam Locomotive from Owossa to Clare, MI. Imagery of this engine was digitized and used for use in the popular “The Polar Express” movie. March 22 – Concord, NC LCCA will again participate in the second annual RED CARPET EVENT at the Lionel facility. This event also includes members of the Lionel Railroaders Club, but is not open to the public. March 22 & 23 – Foley, AL Train Show at the Foley Civic Center. Also visit the nearby Foley Railroad Museum with a train layout, exhibits, and RR cars on static display alongside. April 6 – Rockford, IL LCCA will return to Rockford for an annual Train Show hosted by Jerry Dangelo. April 23 – York, PA Casual “Dutch treat” dinner and social event at Smokey Bones Restaurant, Wednesday, at 6:30 p.m. (1301 Kenneth Road – off Route 30 and Loukes Road in York) April 26 & 27 – Westminster, CO LCCA-CTTG co-sponsored Toy Train Auction with 700+ lots of three-rail O-gauge toy trains and two-rail O-scale model trains July 27 – Indianapolis, IN LCCA members are invited to participate in the NASCAR-sponsored Brickyard 400 race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to be held on the day after the LCCA Convention ends. Only 100 tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Toy Trunk Railroad by Erik Sansom

The Lion Roars 13 Kenneth J. Kelley RM 1308 Treasurer’s Report

he accompanying financial report Further, the high level of Special Events covers calendar year 2012. LCCA’s was a positive note for us. This activity financial performance during this enhances our overall well-being as an T period demonstrated a marked organization. We are now poised to meet the HIGHLIGHT: improvement over the previous two years. needs and expectation of members. Going Our club has a cohesive and hard-working forward, I am working on establishing “The December leadership group that serves the best interest clearer procedures for reporting income and 2012 results of the organization and its members. That expenses to the officers and BOD so that spirit is often most evident during tight they can manage the club in a financially demonstrate financial times when expenses must be sound manner. trimmed and some past practices made more Thankfully, the LCCA has now fully that we have responsive and cost-effective. recovered from the operating loss in 2011. corrected the In 2011 under the leadership of President The December 2012 results demonstrate that DeVito and the BOD, LCCA implemented we have corrected the main problems from main problems a new service agreement with a vendor in the past. As the accompanying data shows, from the past. Illinois – a company that had previously we had a small profit. As all who purchased served LCCA for many years. That the 2013 Convention Car are aware, that car As the company could provide the services that was very late. Inclusion of the revenue from we needed along with a flexible plan tied that car would have turned 2012 into a more accompanying to our current needs and variable according profitable year, but LCCA cannot post that data shows, to the amount of activity we actually used. revenue until the car is actually delivered. By the end of calendar year 2011, LCCA Nevertheless, we have “turned the ship we had a small successfully transferred all of our financial around.” Now we need to avoid “falling and administrative support functions to the asleep at the wheel.” It is always easy to profit.” Illinois-based service provider. It became overspend, yet with constant vigilance by and now remains the LCCA Business the leadership we can continue along our Office. present positive course. During and subsequent to this change, As a final note I wish to thank those substantial cost savings were implemented. members who support the LCCA by IT postage costs, automated computer purchasing our limited-edition products. processing, more efficient transaction costs, Our goal is offer quality products that appeal and use of discount freight club contracts to members and enhance their collections in generated positive results. pursuit of happiness in the hobby we love. The website and transactions attached to it provided direct services to members with savings derived from efficiency. Pesky bugs were corrected as they were discovered. Membership retention continued to improve.

The Lion Roars 14 Treasurer’s Report

LIONEL COLLECTORS CLUB OF AMERICA – LCCA Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Membership Equity Modified Cash Basis Year Ending December 31, 2012

ASSETS Cash on Hand and in Banks $ 190,174 Investments 500,000 Inventory at Cost 227,854 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 918,028 Equipment Net of Depreciation 22,183 Convention and Advances 33,119 TOTAL ASSETS $ 973,330

CURRENT LIABILITIES Sales Tax Payable 16 Convention Car Deposits 96,971 150th Anniv. General and other 273,235 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 370,222

TOTAL UNRESTRICTED MEMBERSHIP EQUITY 603,108

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND UNRESTRICTED MEMBERSHIP EQUITY $ 973,330

Statement of Unrestricted Revenues, Expenses and Changes in Membership Equity Modified Cash Basis Year Ending December 31, 2012

UNRESTRICTED REVENUE Car Sales $ 461.462 Dues 275,190 Convention 18,190 Interest and Dividends 745 Initiation Fees 4,427 TOTAL UNRESTRICTED REVENUE $ 760,714

EXPENSES Program Services: Car Sales $ 301,989 The Lion Roars 101.303 Interchange Track 55,274 Convention Expenses 9,392 Website 57,129 Supporting Services: Professional Fees 54,074 Business Office Expense 6,666 Officers and Board of Directors Expenses 60,238 Committee Expenses 5,836 Insurance 5,373 Depreciation 3,378 Bank and Credit Card Charges 28,020 Membership Drive Expense 38,925 Membership Expense 25,821 Miscellaneous Expense 555

TOTAL EXPENSES $ 760.084 INCREASE IN UNRESTRICTED MEMBERSHIP EQUITY BEFORE FEDERAL INCOME TAX $ 630

Federal Income Tax 0

CHANGE IN UNRESTRICTED MEMBERSHIP EQUITY $ 630

UNRESTRICTED MEMBERSHIP EQUITY, BEGINNING OF YEAR 602,478 UNRESTRICTED MEMBERSHIP EQUITY, END OF YEAR $ 603,108

The Lion Roars 15 LCCA, Lionel, and NASCAR in 2014

Bob Carter RM 6620 and Jerry Calkins RM 9418 NASCAR, Trains, Planes, and Cars The 44th annual LCCA Convention in Indianapolis during the week of July 20 – 26 will be our first annual event held in the city known for racing. eW have planned a full week of unique events and exciting activities for LCCA con- ventioneers of all ages. Indiana is the “Popcorn Capital of the Country.” More specifically, Indianapolis is the home of the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” and by coincidence the Kroger Super Weekend at the Brickyard.” Our headquarters will be the Indianapolis Marriott East Hotel. You will be kept so busy with numerous activities, events, tours, and visiting with friends and fellow members that you will wonder where the week went! You may be asking yourself now, “Should I attend this year and possibly bring the family?” After reading what we have planned, we believe you will be con- vinced to register early. In addition to the events and tour program, you will receive several special items including the Registration and Banquet Gifts. There will also be numer- ous gift surprises for those attending specific events. Visit the onsite LCCA Store for bargains and special purchases, including an interesting Convention On-site Car. Although the Convention officially ends on Saturday, July 26, and the LCCA 45th Anniversary Year begins then, with the help of our friends at Lionel and ACCENT on Indianapolis, we have been able to arrange a once-in-a-lifetime Special Event on the next day, Sunday, July 27 – a LCCA/Lionel Post-Conven- tion Special Event at the Brickyard 400. This activity should be on everyone’s Bucket List. You will be hard pressed to pass up this opportunity. We have scheduled many social activities so you will be able to meet and visit with friends and fellow members. Drop by the Hospitality Suite any time and visit other LCCA-ers, work on puzzles, and get acquainted with new train hobby friends. We will start the week on Sunday evening with the President’s Welcome Reception with “cookies and milk.” A social event that will be a must- do for conventioneers of all ages will be held on Tuesday evening at The Chil- dren’s Museum of Indianapolis with trains, dinosaurs, and other treasures. On Wednesday, we will present the First Timers Reception. On Thursday, attend the Get Acquainted Party with many surprises. On Friday evening we will open the Trading Hall for members registered at the host hotel. On Saturday night, we will conclude the Convention with a festive Reception and Banquet. There will be hobby-related workshops too; you won’t be bored! Tours and other events will be offered in an exciting itinerary with many selec- tions and choices. There are tours for everyone, and we believe you’ll talk about them for years to come. There are big trains, little trains, planes, cars, museums, sporting events, and many unusual sites to see plus enjoyable cuisine for those with a discriminating palate. These are all described in more detail in the following pages. Although we do not repeat tours per se, we do provide several opportunities for you to visit well known specific and special sites. Read the tour descriptions carefully. Register early to guarantee a place. “Start Your Engines!” and get ready for high-rev excitement in Indianapolis this July!

Photograph by Chase Gunnoe The Lion Roars 16 LCCA, Lionel, and NASCAR in 2014

Important Points its rebuilding, and in 2006 after a series of to Remember: break-in runs the locomotive was road- 1) Several Tours have limited capacity and worthy, fully operational, and ready for a dress requirements. third career. 2) If you have personal dietary needs, let LCCA conventioneers will board a train us know in advance so that we can make comprised of vintage passenger cars with appropriate arrangements. the famous NKP 765 at the head of the consist and with OGR’s Publisher Rich 3) If you have a physical handicap(s) that Melvin at the throttle. We will make a round requires special arrangements, let us know trip from Kokomo to Logansport with in advance. several photo runbys along the way. We will have a box lunch in Logansport before Monday, July 21 returning to Kokomo. Bring along your TOUR 1 camera or video gear! For reference visit: NKP 765 Excursion www.fortwaynerailroad.org. 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Package Price for Conventioneers: $175/Adult Photograph by Chase Gunnoe Tuesday, July 22 $155/JM or child [includes 1 year JM Leased by the Southern Railroad for 22 trips TOUR 2 Membership or Renewal in 1982, the 765 steam locomotive earned Indianapolis Sports Tour Package Price for Non-conventioneers its stripes on routes through mountainous 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. (available on May 1): terrain and rocketed across the Midwest in Package Price: $98/person $235/Adult later excursion runs out of Chicago, Fort You will have an opportunity to visit the $155/JM or child [includes 1 year JM Wayne, Cincinnati, and Buffalo – to name Lucas Oil Stadium, NCAA Hall of Champi- Membership or Renewal a few. ons, Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, and Note: Closed-toe shoes are required for this The 765’s reach extended as far east as the Indiana Motor Speedway Hall of Fame tour. New Jersey and as far south as Georgia. It Museum. The package price includes motor What a great way to start the week! Board a was assigned to the head-end of the New coach transportation, tour guide, admis- train of vintage passenger cars with the fa- River Trains through West Virginia where it sion, gratuities, and a box lunch. mous NKP 765 on point and OGR Publisher handled the longest passenger train excur- Rich Melvin at the throttle for a round trip sions in history. In the meantime, the 765 excursion from Kokomo to Logansport with appeared in two feature films, “Four several photo run-bys. The package price Friends” in 1981 and “Matewan” in 1987. includes motor coach transportation, tour Throughout the 1980s and early 90s, the guide, train excursion, gratuities, and a box Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society suc- lunch. cessfully partnered with CSX, New Jersey Transit, and Norfolk Southern. The NKP 765 has also been seen in the company of other locomotives such as Nickel Plate Mike 587 and Norfolk & Western Northern 611 and their respective caretakers. For 14 years, the 765 steam locomotive would proudly present the sights, sounds, and smells of a bygone era of railroading while accumulating more than 52,000 miles Photograph by Eliot Scher in excursion service. In 1993, the NKP 765 entered the shop for a complete overhaul. It has since returned to Photographs by Bob Carter the rails in the condition when it was built by the Lima Locomotive Works 61 years Indianapolis is a city that built its reputation before! In 2005 this loco was unveiled after on sports, both amateur and professional. Conventioneers will stop at the Lucas Oil The Lion Roars 17 Stadium, NCAA Hall of Champions, TOUR 4 Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, and the Tuesday, July 22 Planes and Cars Indiana Motor Speedway Hall of Fame TOUR 3 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Museum. Indy Indeed Package Price: $76.00/person 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Lucas Oil Stadium is Indy’s newest sport- What would a LCCA Convention be without Package Price: $92/person ing venue and the home of the NFL’s a presence for planes and cars? This tour Indianapolis Colts since the 2008 season. It This tour is a great way to visit the high- offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to visit is a state-of-the-art retractable roof multi- lights and treasures of Indianapolis. The a unique aviation facility at Midwest Aero purpose facility with spectacular views of package price includes motor coach trans- Restorations Ltd. You’ll see a collection downtown Indianapolis. The stadium seats portation, tour guide, admission to Indiana of planes and Corvettes of LCCA member more than 63,000 for football games and Historical Society and Indianapolis Motor Butch Schroeder all in one trip. The pack- other events and also boasts a FieldTurf Speedway Museum, gratuities and lunch age price includes; motor coach transporta- in-fill playing surface, seven locker rooms, voucher at the Stardust Café. tion, tour guide, and lunch at the famous operable north window, dual two-level Beef House. club lounges, 137 suites (including eight This tour is limited to 54 participants. Reg- at field level), retractable sideline seating, ister early! Closed-toe shoes are required large video boards, ribbon boards, spacious for this tour. concourses, exhibit halls, and meeting rooms. The NCAA is headquartered in India- napolis and houses the Hall of Champi- ons Museum. This interactive museum pays homage to the 23 sports the NCAA governs. It is designed to create an ap- preciation for the trials and triumphs of the During this tour you will wind your way student-athlete. All exhibits interactively past many of Indianapolis’ well-known high- engage visitors and create a true-to-life lights, some hidden treasures, and important understanding of just what it takes to make landmarks: Monument Circle, the State the grade. You will get a taste of what it’s Capitol, the Scottish Rite Cathedral, the City like to be a student-athlete but without the Market, the Circle Centre Mall, White River 5 a.m. workouts. State Park, Lockerbie Square (home of Raggedy Ann and Andy and Little Orphan In Indiana, basketball isn’t simply a game. If you enjoy planes, you’ll enjoy a visit to a Annie), Union Station, and the Soldiers and It’s a tradition, passion, and part of the unique facility specializing in restoring and Sailors Monument – to name a few. Hoosier culture. The Indiana Basketball maintaining vintage war birds at Midwest Hall of Fame museum celebrates the On this tour you will learn why Indianapolis Aero Restorations Ltd. This is a working fa- proud heritage of basketball in the state is known as “The Amateur Sports Capital cility that began operations in Danville, IL, of Indiana from its origins in the 1890s to of the World.” Victory Field is considered in 1993. It is most associated with the res- the current season. A visit to the 14,000 one of the best minor league ballparks in the toration and maintenance of award-winning square feet museum features not only the country. You will also see the places where P-51 Mustangs. Although the P-51 is their men, women, and teams that have brought the professionals play; Lucas Oil Stadium specialty, they have also been involved with recognition to themselves, but a number (home to the Indianapolis Colts) and Bank- the restoration and maintenance of other of interactive exhibits that will bring you er’s Life Fieldhouse (home to the Indiana aircraft including the BT-13, AT-6, Cessna closer to the action of Indiana High School Pacers and WNBA’s Indiana Fever). L-19, P-47, and Vought Corsair. basketball! A trip to Indiana would not be complete Since Midwest is a working facility, we will A trip would not be complete to Indianapo- without a stop to the largest raceway in not know what planes will be under restora- lis without a visit to the largest raceway in the world, the Indianapolis Motor Speed- tion until our arrival. Currently there are the world, the Indianapolis Motor Speed- way! While at the Speedway you’ll enjoy three P-51s either being restored or under- way! This 2.5 mile oval track is host to a narrated lap around the famous oval and going routine maintenance. Another of their the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400, and get a sneak peek into the past, present, and current undertakings is a Messerschmitt 109 MotoGP race. The track has capability to future of racing at the Indianapolis Motor that was recovered from a lake in Russia. host 400,000 visitors. This makes the track Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. You will The last P-51 they restored is located in the largest and highest-capacity sporting have lunch at the Stardust Café. For more Danville and is now for sale by the owner. facility in the world. While at the track, information visit The asking price is three million dollars. If you will enjoy a narrated lap around the www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com you are interested, bring your checkbook (or famous oval, and get a sneak peek into and www.indianahistory.org. cash)! the past, present, and future of racing at Midwest Aero strives to replicate war the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of birds to their completely stock World War Fame Museum. II combat configuration. The restorations include all the original functioning military

The Lion Roars 18 combat equipment installed on the aircraft playground where more than one million home to the national and state headquarters when it originally left the factory. They also guests come each year to enjoy science, his- of the American Legion. have correct and authentic paint schemes tory, art, and culture. for an actual combat plane as it would We will start the evening at the largest Water have appeared once it reached its theater Clock in North America. For dinner, you of operation in a war zone. These are no will be treated to a Hoosier Picnic in the compromise restorations, and many details Sunburst Atrium. are hidden from view. To get an idea what you will see on this tour, visit their website After dinner, you will have an opportunity at http://www.midwestaero.com/site/Mid- to visit the interactive exhibits within the west_Aero_Restorations,_Ltd.html. museum. Among the hands-on attractions are the National Geographic Treasures of At this same airport, LCCA member Butch the Earth where you will experience world- Schroeder (RM 20907) keeps a T-6 and renowned archaeological sites. You will also P-51 (Lil Margaret) in a hanger along with visit the Archaeology Wet Lab in Treasures his collection of Corvettes. We are planning and interact with an archaeologist prepping a visit with him. To see the complete story artifacts. The Dinosphere features life-size, The Indiana War Memorial Museum was on his P-51, which is actually the recon ver- roaring dinosaur skeletons and simulated originally constructed to honor Indiana sion F-6D, check out this web page: http:// fossil digs. You will also visit the Paleo Prep soldiers who died in World War I. Con- www.crazyhorseap.be/Mustangs/Mustangs/ Lab, chat with a paleontologist, and assist struction was halted due to lack of funding N51BS%20Lil%20Margaret/N51BS%20 with fossil preparation. The Fireworks of during the Great Depression, but it was Lil%20Margaret.htm. Glass (a 43-foot sculpture by artist Dale finished in 1951. The purpose of the memo- Chihuly) is a special treat. rial was later amended to encompass all American wars in which Hoosiers fought. TOUR 5 In 1868, Reuben Wells, master mechanic An Evening with Trains, Among the interesting items on display for the Jefferson, Madison, and Indianapolis is the commission plate of the battleship Dinosaurs, and Treasures Railroad designed a 55-ton steam engine to at The Children’s Muse- USS Indiana, numerous military firearms, a conquer Indiana’s Madison Hill, the steepest Korean War era helicopter, a Navy Terrier um of Indianapolis railroad grade in the US. That engine, named 6 – 10:30 p.m. missile that can be armed with an atomic after its designer, is the centerpiece of “All nuclear warhead, and hundreds of other Package Price: $120/Adult Aboard!” Visitors to this area are welcomed artifacts, photos, and documents. $105/JM or child by a G-gauge train layout. As you wind your way through this exhibit, you will find The Soldiers and Sailors Monument sym- Spend an evening arranged especially for bolizes both Indianapolis and Indiana. The LCCA members as a private visit to the a space full of adventure in which you will learn about trains, past and present. One of limestone used for the monument is gray world’s largest children’s museum. The oolitic limestone from the Romona quarries package price includes motor coach trans- the museum’s curators will be there to share information and present items that are not of Owen County. It stands 284.5 feet, only portation, tour guide, admission, access to 15 feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty. the following exhibits: National Geograph- regularly on display from the museum’s ic Treasures of the Earth, the Dinosphere, train collection. For more information visit The tour will also take you by the Medal of Fireworks of Glass, the Train Exhibit “All www.childrensmuseum.org. Honor Memorial and the USS Indianapo- Aboard” featuring the Reuben Wells Steam lis Memorial. Created to honor all Medal Engine, and a Hoosier Picnic. of Honor recipients, the Medal of Honor Wednesday, July 23 Memorial consists of 27 glass panels set TOUR 6 in concrete bases. The panels are arranged Indy Memorial Tour into 15 walls, each representing an armed 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. conflict in which a Medal of Honor was Package Price: $71/person awarded. The names of the recipients are etched into the glass. Indianapolis is second only to Washington, DC, in the number of monuments and acre- The National USS Indianapolis Memorial age dedicated to veterans. This tour will is the climax of a 50-year dream by the enable you to visit many historic places. The crew members who survived the sinking package price includes: motor coach trans- of the cruiser USS Indianapolis in 1945. portation, tour guide, stops at the Indiana The survivors worked continually to erect a War Memorial and the USS Indianapolis fitting memorial to their missing shipmates. Memorial, gratuities, and a lunch voucher at Engraved on the south face of the monu- Shapiro’s Deli. ment are the names of the ship’s company and one passenger who made up her final The Indiana War Memorial Plaza Historic crew. For more information visit: This event is for kids of all ages – there is District contains two museums, three parks, www.indianawarmemorial.org, something for everyone. You will experi- and 24 acres of monuments, statues, sculp- www.ussindianapolis.org/monument.htm, ence the largest children’s museum in the tures, and fountains in the heart of down- and www.shapiros.com. world. The museum is a huge, five-level town Indianapolis. The state’s capital is also

The Lion Roars 19 TOUR 7 TOUR 9 Whitewater Valley Thursday, July 24 Historic Indy Architecture Railroad Experience TOUR 8 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Indiana Transportation Package Price: $93/person Package Price: $106/person Museum and Train Ride 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. This tour will offer an opportunity to see and visit some sites with unique architecture An excursion on the Whitewater Valley Rail- Package Price: $110/person road followed by a canal barge trip will be found in Indianapolis. The package price one of the highlights of the week. The pack- Step aboard for another enjoyable train includes motor coach transportation, tour age price includes motor coach transporta- trip into yesteryear when railroads were guide, gratuities, admission to the Benjamin tion, tour guide, train and canal barge trips, king. Discover the rich railroad history of Harrison Home, the Scottish Rite Cathedral, gratuities, and a box lunch. Indiana. The package price includes motor the James Whitcomb Riley Home and lunch coach transportation, tour guide, train ride, at the famous Rathskellar. Closed-toe shoes are required for this tour. museum admission, box lunch, and gratuities. This tour is limited to 54 participants. Register early! Closed-toe shoes are required for this tour.

Step into the past as you visit several architectural landmarks. The Scottish Rite Cathedral is a historic building designed by Photograph by WVR architect George F. Schreiber. It is owned Railfanning in Indiana would not be by the Valley of Indianapolis Scottish Rite, complete without a trip on the Whitewater an affiliated body of Freemasonry. It was Valley Railroad. You will board the Valley Photograph by ITM built between 1927 and 1929 at the cost of Flyer, consisting of vintage equipment, at $2.5 million. Every dimension (measured in the Connersville depot; depart on a unique We will board the train at the Indiana State feet) can be evenly divided by three, which hour and a half journey to Metamora along Fair Grounds and take a trip to Tipton. After reflects the three degrees in Freemasonry. the river. passing through Tipton, you will take a one- Many are divisible by 33 (reflecting the hour journey to Noblesville where you will Platted in 1838, Metamora is a restored degrees a member of the Scottish Rite can enjoy lunch and have the opportunity to visit achieve). canal town. While in Metamora, you will be and explore the open-air museum. able to visit the working grist mill, restored Built in 1875, President Benjamin Har- canal and lock, operating replica horse The line on which the train operates was rison’s home is a masterpiece of Italianate drawn canal boat, historic covered aque- started from Indianapolis in 1849 as the Architecture. Sixteen rooms have been re- duct, and more than 100 shops and restau- Peru & Indianapolis Railroad. It reached stored and are still resplendent with many of rants including the world famous Cookie Noblesville in 1851 and continued north to the original furnishings and keepsakes. The Jar. Tipton. Lockerbie Street home of James Whitcomb In addition to visiting the sites, you will be The museum is an operating facility where Riley is one of the finest Victorian preser- able to step back in time while taking a lei- you will see how trains operate. The trains vations in the United States. This home of surely ride on the canal barge, Ben Franklin will enable you to go back in time and wit- the creator of Little Orphan Annie reflects III. Along the route, you will pass the Duck ness similar trains to those that transported a genteel lifestyle revolving around good Creek Aqueduct, a covered bridge that car- most Americans before interstate highways food, good company, and good books. ries the canal 16 feet over Duck Creek. The and jet planes. The Indiana Transportation What would a trip to Indianapolis be without aqueduct is believed to be the only structure Museum combines the educational experi- some reference to the “Greatest Spectacle of its kind in the nation. For more informa- ence of learning about trains with the fun of in Racing”? Your tour will take you by the tion visit: www.whitewatervalleyrr.org. riding them! mansions of James Allison, Frank Wheeler, After a leisurely hour of exploring the and Carl Fisher, all co-founders of the Indiana Transportation Museum and eating Indianapolis Motor Speedway. In addition to a boxed lunch in the park, you will board these homes, this tour will include drive-by the train and return to the Indiana State Fair views of other mansions. For more informa- Grounds. For more information visit tion visit: https://itm.org. www.presidentbenjaminharrison.org, www.aasr-indy.org, and james-whitcomb-riley-house.visit-indianap- olis.com. The Lion Roars 20 TOUR 11 TOUR 12 Friday, July 25 Indy Honor Tour Amtrak Beech Grove Facility TOUR 10 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Historic Indianapolis Package Price: $44/person Package Price: $46/person 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. This half-day tour will feature some of the This is a chance of a lifetime! Tours of the Package Price: $43/person veteran memorials that were visited earlier Amtrak Beech Grove facility are rarely This half-day tour will have some of the in the week. A visit to the Indiana War Me- given to the public. However, as a result of highlight features of other tours available morial and the USS Indianapolis Memorial the extraordinary efforts of our ACCENT of earlier in the week. The package price is a must when visiting veteran memorials Indianapolis Program Manager, a tour has includes motor coach transportation, tour in Indianapolis. The package price includes been arranged for LCCA conventioneers. guide, admission and tour of the Benjamin motor coach transportation, tour guide, and The package price includes: motor coach Harrison Home. Lunch will not be provided admission. Lunch will not be provided dur- transportation, tour guide, and admission. during this tour. ing this tour. Lunch will not be provided during the tour. Notes: This tour is limited to 54 partici- pants. Register early! Closed-toe shoes are required for this tour.

Indianapolis’ proud heritage is evident in its We will start this tour with some of the best-known landmarks: Indiana War Memo- city’s best-known landmarks – Monu- rial Plaza Historic District, the Soldiers and ment Circle, the State Capitol, the Scottish Sailors Monument, the Medal of Honor Rite Cathedral, the City Market, the Circle Memorial, Indiana War Memorial Museum, Centre Mall, White River State Park, Union and the National USS Indianapolis Memo- The famous Amtrak Beech Grove Shops Station, the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monu- rial. Refer to Tour 6. For more information is a railway maintenance facility located ment, Lucas Oil Stadium, Victory Field, and visit www.indianawarmemorials.org. in Beech Grove, IN, a company town and Banker’s Life Fieldhouse to name a few. railroad repair facility constructed in 1904- Some areas in the city are still preserved 08 by the Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago, to represent the past. In 1821, Thomas and & St. Louis RR (aka the “Big Four”). The Janel McQuat purchased several outlets west facility was formerly used as repair shop for of the Mile Square in an area now known steam locomotives, passenger, and freight as Lockerbie Square. During the Civil War, cars. The shops passed to the NYC in 1922, people began moving into the neighbor- then to Penn Central in 1968. In 1973, Am- hood. A cobblestone street, brick sidewalks, trak contracted with the Penn Central RR and old-fashioned gas lamps were installed for repairing and refurbishing its passenger along Lockerbie Street and are still there cars. today. Amtrak Beech Grove Shops now serve as Amtrak’s primary heavy maintenance and One of the many famous homes just outside major overhaul facility. Locomotives and Lockerbie Square is the home of President cars are maintained to high performance and Benjamin Harrison. The Lockerbie Street safety standards. Although the main focus Home of James Whitcomb Riley is one is on the Superliner, Viewliner, Surfliner, of the finest Victorian preservations in the Heritage, and Horizon car fleets, P32, P42, United States. For more information, visit and F59 locomotives are also overhauled www.presidentbenjaminharrison.org. and rebuilt here. For more information visit: http://history.amtrak.com/archives and search for Beech Grove.

The Lion Roars 21 Saturday, July 26 Mr. Muffin’s Trains is an operating club- TOUR 14 size layout that is open to the public and An Adventure in Nashville, IN TOUR 13 includes an O-gauge model train collection. 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Mr. Muffin’s Trains The museum, as Mr. Muffin calls it, was Package Price: $70/person 8 a.m. - Noon built to share the collection with the public, This will be a fun outing after a very busy Four Tours – Register for One promote the hobby, and assist people in week! Here’s a chance to do something a A: 8 to 9 getting started with model trains. It occupies little different from the venues of the week. B: 9 to 10 more than 4,000 square feet and is located The package price includes motor coach C:10 to 11 in Carmel, IN. The collection includes more transportation, tour guide, antiquing, D: 11 to Noon than 2,000 O-gauge model trains. For more shopping and a stop at the Nashville Fudge Package Price: $10/person information visit www.mrmuffinstrains.org Kitchen with a voucher for half-pound slice and Facebook at MrMuffin’sTrains. This tour will be your chance to visit the of fudge. Lunch will be on your own. famous Mr. Muffin’s Trains. Four one-hour trips will be scheduled. The package in- cludes roundtrip motor coach transportation from the hotel to the layout.

Nestled in the hills of southern Indiana in Brown County lies Nashville. Settle back and enjoy the natural beauty and splendor of scenic back roads and country lanes, rustic log cabins, breathtaking vistas, historic cov- ered bridges, and much more as you travel to this small quaint village. Nashville’s charming streets are a delight to wander and provide a perfect shopping experience. Its isolation has encouraged innovation and creativity, making artistic pursuits a popular pastime. More than 250 shops offer an endless variety of the finest in handmade, one-of-a-kind items, distinc- tive oil paintings, designer jewelry, an- tiques, candles, and everything in between. What better way to conclude an afternoon of sight-seeing and shopping than with a good ole’ fashioned fudge shop! Before heading back to Indianapolis, you will want to stop at the locally owned and operated Nashville Fudge Kitchen. For more infor- mation visit www.nashville-indiana.com. Photographs not otherwise identified provided by Accent on Indianapolis

Photographs provided by Mr. Muffin’s Trains

The Lion Roars 22 LCCA 2014 Convention Daily Schedule – Indianapolis, IN

Day/Description Time Notes

Sunday, July 20 Registration Desk Open Noon – 7 p.m. Marriott East Hotel (MEH) President’s Reception 7:30 – 9 p.m. MEH Monday, July 21 Registration Desk Open 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. MEH TOUR 1: NPK 765 Steam Special 8:30 am – 4:30 pm Kokomo to Logansport, IN LCCA Store Open 5:30 – 10 p.m. MEH Workshop: TBA 7 – 8 p.m. MEH Workshop: About NKP 765 w/Rich Melvin 8:30 – 10 p.m. MEH Tuesday, July 22 Registration Desk Open 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. MEH TOUR 2: Indianapolis Sports Tour 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Indianapolis TOUR 3: Indy Indeed 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Indianapolis TOUR 4: Planes and Cars 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Danville, IL LCCA Store Open 2:30 – 5:30 p.m. MEH TOUR 5: Trains, Dinos, and Treasures 6 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. Indianapolis Children’s Museum Wednesday, July 23 Registration Desk Open 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. MEH TOUR 6: Indy Memorial Tour 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Indianapolis TOUR 7: Whitewater Valley RR 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Connersville to Metamora, IN LCCA Store Open 3 – 9 p.m. MEH Reception for Conv’tn First Timers (only) 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. MEH Workshop: TBA 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. MEH Workshop: TBA 8:45 – 9:45 p.m. MEH Thursday, July 24 Registration Desk Open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. MEH TOUR 8: Indiana Transportation Museum 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Includes Train Excursion Ride TOUR 9: Historical Indy Architecture 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Indianapolis LCCA Store Open 3 – 6 p.m. MEH

Get Acquainted Party 6 – 10 p.m. MEH Friday, July 25 Registration Desk Open 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. MEH TOUR 10: Historic Indianapolis 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Indianapolis TOUR 11: Indy Honor Tour 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Indianapolis TOUR 12: Amtrak Beech Grove Facility 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Beech Grove, IN LCCA Store Open 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. MEH LCCA Annual Business Meeting 2 – 3 p.m. MEH Lionel Seminar 3 – 5 p.m. MEH Trading Hall Open 6 – 9 p.m. for Members Registered at MEH Saturday, July 26 Registration Desk Open 8 a.m. – Noon MEH Trading Hall Open 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. For Members only LCCA Store Open 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. MEH Trading Hall Open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. For Members and the Public TOUR 13: A-B-C-D: Mr. Muffin’s Trains Four one-hour tours Carmel, IN Departures at 8, 9, 10, 11 a.m. TOUR 14: An Adventure in Nashville, IN 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Spouses Day Out Trading Hall Take Down 3 p.m. – Finish MEH LCCA Reception 6 – 7 p.m. MEH LCCA Banquet 7 – 10:30 p.m. MEH Convention Ends after the Banquet LCCA 45th Anniversary Year Begins

Sunday, July 27 Post-convention Special Event 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Indianapolis Motor Speedway NASCAR Brickyard 400

The Lion Roars 23 The Brickyard A Post-conventionSpecial Event400 NASCAR Race

Sunday, July 27 The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is home For 2012, Crown Royal signed a multi-year to the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” and contract to be the title sponsor of the event. 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. also the Super Weekend at the Brickyard. The official title will reflect the “Your Name Package Prices: Here” program, which honors members of During all the action of Kroger Super Week- Conventioneer: $240 the U.S. Armed Forces or first responders. Non-conventioneer: $265 (available after end at the Brickyard, which is occurring This Special Event will start in Legends April 1) during our Convention, four races including the Crown Royal “Your Hero’s Name Here” Row, a two-story structure comprised of Here is your chance to attend a NASCAR 400 at the Brickyard are run as part of the 18 corporate hospitality rooms honoring race – the famous Brickyard Yard 400. Our NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NASCAR Indianapolis 500 greats such as Gordon friends at Lionel have arranged a post-con- Nationwide Series, and GRAND-AM Road Johncock, A.J. Foyt, Mario Andretti, and vention Special Event for us. The package Racing. The races will take place on the 2.5- Johnny Rutherford. price includes motor coach transportation, mile oval track and the 2.534-mile Grand Located adjacent to the famed Gasoline Al- tour guide, special parking, Legends Row Prix road course. ley, you will have an expansive view of the including a hospitality suite and pre-race Garage Area. Experience behind-the-scenes passes to the garage area [pit passes], Participants in this LCCA/Lionel Post-con- activity as teams prepare their cars for the behind-the-scenes experience, admission, vention Special Event will attend the 21st weekend’s events. We will be situated in food and beverage, seats in the lower level running of the Brickyard 400 and be a part climate-controlled rooms furnished with of the Paddock Section. of the festivities at the track. Past winners include four-time winner Jeff Gordon, four- tables and chairs, closed circuit TV, private Notes: time winner Jimmie Johnson, and two-time restroom facilities, and a patio or balcony. 1) This post-convention Special Event has winner Tony Stewart. Food and beverages will also be provided. limited capacity of 100 seats! The term “Brickyard” is the nickname At race time, you will journey underneath 2) Conventioneers have special pricing. On historically applied to the Indianapolis Mo- the track to your seat located in the Lower April 1, tickets will also be offered to non- tor Speedway. The track opened in 1909 Paddock Section where you will be able to conventioneers on a first-come, first-served and was initially constructed of crushed view the race “live” in person. Your seat availability basis. stone and tar, which caused numerous and will be located in a shaded area close to the 3) Individuals with physical handicaps will sometimes fatal accidents. Because of this, track. During the race, you will be able to require special arrangements. the course was paved with 3.2 million bricks return to Legends Row for food and drink as in time for the inaugural Indy 500 race in you wish. For more information visit 4) In order to walk in the Garage Area 1911. Throughout the years the bricks have www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/ for pre-race only, you must be 18 years or been covered with asphalt and now only a brickyard400. older. one-yard strip of brick remains exposed at Photograph provided 5) This is a once-of-a-life-time opportunity, the start/finish line. by Accent on Indianapolis so don’t miss it. Register now!

The Lion Roars 24 Jerry Dangelo CM67 LCCA “Meet Cars” 1975-82

A Brief History n 1974, LCCA of- ficials established a program intended to HIGHLIGHT: I produce revenue and boost attendance at LCCA “The cars were regional train meets. The concept was to sell “Meet • 1975-76 6014 white Frisco boxcar w/blue and gold LCCA Cars” at train meets only to sold without a lettering. members who attended the • 1976-77 Lionel Lines tender w/gold LCCA lettering. meets. While the idea was Lionel box, so Note: These two items were old/new stock from the excellent, the cars – to say warehouse, I believe. these pieces may the least – were not. They were Lionel® O-27-size, bare-bones items with plas- not be noticed at tic trucks and one operating coupler. The six cars are a vendor’s table.” shown here. Not Much Documentation All six cars were stamped by outside vendors or • 1977-78 9142 green Republic Steel gondola w/two red volunteers. Records/data of canisters and red LCCA lettering. this program are practically • 1978-79 9036 white Mobilgas tank car w/blue LCCA non-existent. To the best of lettering. my knowledge, between 400 to 700 of each item were offered. The Lionel Lines tender is the hardest piece to find today. The 9142 Republic Steel gondola is the most common. The program did fulfill its • 1979-80 9016 yellow B&O/Chessie hopper w/maroon purpose at the time, but the LCCA lettering. cars are not in much demand • 1982 6483 red “Jersey Central” caboose w/white LCCA today except to those who lettering. collect LCCA memorabilia. Note: To my knowledge, LCCA did not provide a Meet Car I have seen very few of them in 1981. for sale. The cars were sold without a Lionel box, so these pieces may not be noticed at a vendor’s table. Further, these items may be perceived as “O-27 junk.” Remember Rockford Answers to A Lionel Don’t forget to mark your calendar for Puzzlement the LCCA Train Meet in Rockford, IL, on Sunday, April 6, 2014. For details, refer to 1. Culvert Loader, 2. Diesel Horn Shed, 3. Lionel Heliport, 4. the “Special Events Are Special” article Exploding Boxcar, 5. Hudson Bay in this issue. As I write this text in late Tanker, 6. Franks Hotdog Stand, December, table reservations are moving 7. Lackawanna Caboose, forward briskly. 8. Scrooge McDuck Mint Car, 9. Poultry Dispatch, 10. Oil Photographs by Jerry Dangelo Derrick, 11. Blue Comet Pullman, 12. Hell Gate Bridge.

The Lion Roars 25 Bill Schmeelk HM 6643 Lionel News and Views

Big Boy on the Move The last Big Boy to move across nion Pacific has been busy getting Big Sherman Hill. Boy 4014 moving. The huge loco and 4006 - St. Louis, Missouri HIGHLIGHT: Utender has been rolled from its display Noted for having racked up the most at Fairplex in Pomona, CA, and moved mileage of the Big Boys during its service “The idea close to the place where it will exit that site - 1,064,625 miles. and roll onto the Los Angeles area com- behind the muter railroad Metrolink. As part of the deal Posed in 1962 alongside the Civil War Service Station with the museum, Union Pacific will replace “General” locomotive. the Big Boy with a SD-40-2 and a caboose. 4012 - Scranton, Pennsylvania sets was to As I write this, the exact date has not been Steamtown USA paid $6,000 to move provide a announced, but UP officials promised that the 4012 from Union Pacific’s transfer in notice would be given so that railfans can Council Bluffs to the museum site. watch. UP has said the earliest date would be special set Of all the preserved Big Boys, the 4012 in late January. that would is the most travelled. First arrived in 1964 The 4014 has been a part of Fairplex for 51 at Steamtown USA site at Bellows Falls, be sold only years. As the Big Boy was rolled away from VT. Moved in 1974 to the Green Moun- its static display position, employees of the tain Railway. Moved in 1984 to Scranton, through Lionel Fairplex hung a banner wishing the 4014 PA, as part of relocated Steamtown USA Authorized good luck along with the message, “See you locomotive collection. Moved in 1994 at the 100th anniversary of the Los Angeles from display in front of downtown hotel to Service County Fair in 2022.” When Big Boys were railyard facilities of Steamtown National first contemplated by UP, trackage to Los Historic Site. Stations.” Angeles was prepared for these large locos, 4014 - Pomona, California but trips to that area never materialized. Now Probably the last accident involving a a return trip has been promised. Big Boy occurred when 4014 was moved Lionel’s new Vision Line model of the Big to a new site within the fairgrounds. Dur- Boy locomotive will be available well before ing the moving process, 4014 ran into the 2022. Seven of the eight locos still in exis- tender of Santa Fe 4-6-4 No. 3450. tence will be modeled. Those who are con- Reacquired by UP in 2013 and slated for sidering purchasing one of these behemoths transportation to Cheyenne shops for pos- must decide which one of the seven locos sible restoration as part of the UP Steam they would prefer. Based on research, here Program. are some interesting facts about each loco. 4017 - Green Bay, Wisconsin 4004 - Cheyenne, Wyoming It was one of the last two Big Boys to Parts from this Big Boy including the receive heavy repair work at the Cheyenne cold water pump, water injector and whistle shops in 1959. were returned to the UP Steam Program for use on the 4-6-6-4 Challenger No. 3985. First Big Boy to go on public display at a museum. Of all displayed Big Boys, this is the only one that is closely fenced in. When moved to the site of Lensfesty Center in 2000, the exhibition hall was This Big Boy was preserved through the then built around it. local efforts of the Union Pacific Old Tim- ers Club. The outdoor display site in a city Used as a background in the award win- park was soft earth. The club raised $2,000 ning music video, Like a Train, performed through a raffle to build a concrete slab to by the Celtic rock music band Celi Rain. accommodate the locomotive’s massive 4018 - Frisco, Texas weight ­— about 933,500 lbs. This Big Boy was the subject of an 4005 - Denver, Colorado ill-fated proposal to restore it for a movie This was the only Big Boy temporarily production in 1998. converted to burn oil in a fuel test for UP After 48 years in Dallas as a static between 1946 and 1948. display, it is now a feature at the Museum Involved in a wreck at Red Desert, WY of the American Railroad in Frisco. in 1953 that killed three UP employees.

The Lion Roars 26 Lionel News and Views

Made in Two Series trying to find an answer to a question about • 9725 MKT Stock Car The Big Boys were made in two batches. them, I could not find anywhere a complete • 9165 Canadian Pacific N5c Caboose The first 20 units (4000 through 4019) list of the sets and their contents. So I as- 1974: 6-1450 – Rio Grande Set were delivered beginning in 1941 in time to sembled a list. After considerable searching, • 8464 Rio Grande Powered F3A unit I completed the list. This information will be • 8465 Rio Grande Non-Powered F3A unit perform massive war-related transportation • 9863 Railway Express Agency Reefer services. Five more Big Boys (4020 through of interest to club members and collectors. • 9739 D&RGW Boxcar 4024) were needed for war work and were The idea behind the Service Station sets was • 9144 D&RGW Gondola delivered in 1944. There is one noticeable to provide a special set that would be sold • 9117 Alaska Railroad Quad Hopper • 9166 D&RGW SP-type Caboose difference between the two sets of locos. only through Lionel Authorized Service Sta- The first 20 had after coolers mounted on tions. Many Service Stations did not operate 1975: 6-1579 – Milwaukee Road Set the front handrails. These were found to be • 8555 Milwaukee Road F3A Powered a retail store, so these special sets gave them • 8557 Milwaukee Road F3A Non-Powered troublesome. They were fin-type coolers and an opportunity to offer a collectible train set • 9754 NYC Pacemaker Boxcar had problems with condensation freezing available exclusively through them. The first • 9132 Libby’s Vat Car and cracking the cast iron header. When the one appeared in 1971 and came in a generic • 9119 Detroit & Mackinac Covered Hopper 1944 series was built a different type cooler box with a color illustration of three locos • 9758 Alaska Boxcar • 9169 Milwaukee Road SP-type Caboose was used. It was mounted behind the pump on its cover. The same box was used again doors at the front of the loco – a much better in 1972. A red label was used on the cover 1976: 6-1672 – Northern Pacific Set arrangement. After the war, this new type af- • 8666 Northern Pacific GP-9 to identify the contents. For several years, • 9869 Santa Fe Reefer ter cooler was applied to all 20 original Big the boxes for Service Station sets were not • 9267 Alcoa Covered Hopper Boys during the 1948-1952 timeframe. The designed for shelf display. Later boxes were • 9775 M&St.L Boxcar original after coolers can be seen on early plain with a label attached that detailed the • 9776 SP Overnight Boxcar black and white photos. All the color photos contents of the set. • 9177 Northern Pacific Bay Window Caboose I’ve seen are more recent shots, so the after 1977: 6-1766 – B&O Budd Set coolers are no longer on the handrails. For some reason, these sets were discontin- • 8766 B&O RDC Baggage Powered ued after the 1978 set. The program was re- • 8767 B&O RDC Passenger Dummy The last Big Boy to operate was the 4015. instated in 1986 and continued through 2002 • 8768 B&O RDC Passenger Dummy This loco was also the first of the Big Boys when the program was ended. From 1996 • 8764 B&O RDC Passenger Powered Available later in 1977 to be torched and scrapped. The scrap value on, the sets came in more typical Lionel dis- in the early 1960s was $350 a ton, or about • 8765 B&O RDC Baggage Dummy Available later play set boxes. Many of the early sets were in 1977 $18,000 for an entire locomotive. advertised with one-page flyers. Eventually, 1978: 6-1868 – Minneapolis & St. Louis Set Some of this information was found in the the sets were advertised in the catalog and • 8866 Minneapolis & St. Louis GP-9 Diesel latest book I’ve seen on the Big Boys, The described as available through Service Sta- • 9213 M&St.L Covered Hopper Big Legacy of the Union Pacific Big Boy, by tions only. The following list includes all of • 9408 Lionel Lines Circus Cattle Car James J. Reisdorff and Michael M. Bartels, the sets and extras offered and the contents • 9726 Erie Lackawanna Boxcar • 9138 Sunoco Three Dome Tank Car published in 2006 by South Platte Press. of each set. • 9271 M&St.L Bay Window Caboose Lionel Service Station Sets 1971: 6-1187 – Illinois Central Set 1986: 6-1632 – Santa Fe Work Train • 8030 IC GP-9 (w/wire handrails) • 8635 ATSF Steam Switcher • 9200 IC Boxcar • 5745 Santa Fe Bunk Car • 9211 Penn Central Boxcar • 5760 Santa Fe Tool Car • 9214 Northern Pacific Boxcar • 6272 Santa Fe Gondola with Wire Spools • 9215 Norfolk & Western Boxcar • 6593 Santa Fe Operating Crane Car • 9230 Monon Boxcar • 6496 Santa Fe Work Caboose • 9160 IC N5c Caboose • 12 O-gauge Straight Track 1987: 6-11704 – Southern Freight Runner • 8 O-gauge Curve Track • 18802 Southern GP-9 Diesel • 16607 Southern Operating Coal Dump Car 1972: 6-1250 – New York Central Set • 16102 Southern Three Dome Tank Car • 8206 4-6-4 Hudson • 16402 Southern Hopper with Coal Load • 9111 N&W Quad Hopper • 16701 Southern Tool Car • 9151 Shell Single Dome Tank Car • 16504 Sothern Lighted Porthole Caboose • 9707 MKT Stock Car • 9709 BAR State of Maine Boxcar 1988: 6-11706 – Virginia & Truckee • 9710 Rutland Boxcar • 18702 V.&T.R.R. General-type Engine and Tender • 9162 Pennsylvania N5c Caboose • 16010 V&T Passenger Car • 12 O-gauge Straight Track • 16011 V&T Passenger Car • 8 O-gauge Curve Track • 16012 V&T Baggage Car 1973: 6-1350 – Canadian Pacific Set 1989: 6-11758 – Desert King • 8365 Canadian National Powered F3 A unit • 18608 Rio Grande 2-6-4 Steam Loco and Tender • 16616 Rio Grande Searchlight Car A recent question posed on the Ask the • 8366 Canadian National Non-Powered F3 unit • 9113 N&W Quad Hopper • 16105 D&RGW Three Dome Tank Car Experts section of the LCCA website con- • 9723 Western Pacific Boxcar • 16206 D&RGW Boxcar cerned Lionel’s Service Station sets. While • 9724 Missouri Pacific Boxcar • 16509 D&RGW SP-type Caboose The Lion Roars 27 1990: 6-11712 – Great Lakes Express 1997: 6-11918 – Conrail Set layouts that Roger Farkash and his team • 18611 Lionel Lines 2-6-4 Steam Loco and • 18566 Conrail SD20 Diesel are working on. There’s also lesson on Tender • 19287 6464-125X NYC/PC Pacemaker Boxcar mountain carving – a technique Roger ex- • 16027 Mt. Clemens Combo Car • 19288 6464-200X Pennsylvania/Conrail Boxcar • 16028 Detroit Coach Car • 6461 Edison Depressed Center Flatcar with cels at. We’re promised more lessons from • 16029 Lansing Coach Car Transformer Roger in future editions of this series. The • 16030 Chesterfield Observation Car • 19608 6315 Sunoco Aviation Fuel Single Dome space and military segments feature classic 1991: 6-11719 – Coastal Freight Special Tank Car postwar Lionel products and some high- • Delaware & Hudson RS-3 • 19738 6417 Conrail N5c Caboose tech digital graphic work that adds quite a • 16109 B&O Single Dome Tank Car 1998: 6-21753 – Fire and Safety Set bit more flash to rockets firing and boxcars • 16335 NYC Pacemaker Flatcar with Trailer • 18444 Motorized Fire Car exploding. There’s even a scene depicting • 19524 D&H Reefer • 19853 Fire Fighting Instruction Car • 16407 B&M Covered Quad Hopper • 19442 Flatcar with Water Supply Tank a North Korean rocket launch that fails and • 16525 D&H Bay Window Caboose • 19854 Extension Searchlight Car blows up the Lionel 175 Rocket Launcher. 1992: 6-11733 – Feather River Set • 26961 Lionel Fire Company Ladder Car These segments are pure fun. • 26505 Lionelville Fire Co. Rescue Caboose • 18820 Western Pacific GP-9 The bonus part of this DVD is an addition- • 16234 ACY Boxcar 1999: 6-21758– Bethlehem Steel Set • 16121 Chicago & Northwestern Stock Car • 18799 NW2 Bethlehem Switcher al 30 minutes from the original VHS series. • 19414 UP Flatcar with Stakes • 16442 Bethlehem Gondola with Coal Load These classic scenes are great to have in • 16359 Pacific Coast Gondola with Coil Covers • 36040 Bethlehem Depressed Center Flat the DVD format. You see a demonstration • 16653 Western Pacific Crane Car Car with block cut from retired 675 die of Lionel’s 1950 D-27 display layout, bet- • 16539 Western Pacific Steel-sided Caboose • 36041 Bethlehem Ore Car ter known as the Magic Mountain display. w/Smoke • 26520 Bethlehem Work Caboose We see it operate and also the inside view 1993: 6-11738 – Soo Line Set 2000: 6-21952 – Lionel Lines Set of just how that long train disappears and • 18825 Soo Line GP-38-2 Diesel • 26296 Service Station Limited Boxcar • 19536 Soo Line REA Reefer • 17413 Parts Express Gondola then emerges from the small mountain. • 17006 Soo Line Two-Bay ACF Standard • 36079 Lionel Service Station Flatcar with Trailer Another segment features scenes of Madi- O Hopper • 26114 Lionel Smoke Fluid Tank Car son Hardware in New York when the entire • 19416 IC TTUX • 17626 Service Station Limited Extended Vision inventory of that store was dismantled, • 19604 Goodyear Single Dome Tank Car Caboose packed up, and moved to Michigan – in- • 19720 Soo Line Extended Vision Caboose 2001: 6-21789 – Norfolk Southern Piggyback Set cluding the front door of the store! 1994: 6-11744 – NYC Passenger/Freight Set • 28529 Norfolk Southern GP-9 Diesel • 18835 NYC RS-3 Diesel • 26004 Conrail Flat Car with Trailer Also featured in the bonus section is a • 19819 Poultry Car • 26005 Nickel Plate Road Flatcar with Trailer trip to the Lionel archive in 1991. We see • 19263 NYC Double Door Boxcar • 26006 Southern Flatcar with Trailer former Lionel VP of Sales John Brady • 16903 Canadian Pacific Flatcar with Wood Load • 26007 N&W Flatcar with Trailer showing off some of the unique pieces in • 19605 Hudson Bay Single Dome Tank Car • 26559 N&W Center Cupola Caboose • 16066 NYC Combo Car the special room that held the archived 2002: 6-28200 – Delaware & Hudson U30C • 16067 NYC Passenger Car products. Many of the items in this seg- 1995: 6-11749 – Western Maryland Toy Train Revue ment are no longer in Lionel’s possession, • 18841 Western Maryland GP-20 Diesel You might remember so this is a great record of what • 16420 Western Maryland Quad Hopper with this title from a VHS the archive formerly contained. Coal Load video series produced We even get to see a break-in and • 16421 Western Maryland Quad Hopper with by Tom McComas Coal Load theft – all in fun, of course. • 16424 Western Maryland Covered Quad Hopper and James Tuohy in Other segments in this section • 16425 Western Maryland Covered Quad Hopper the early 1990s. This include a hand-built-from-scratch • 16426 Western Maryland Covered Quad Hopper is now a new DVD • 16427 Western Maryland Covered Quad Hopper 4-8-4 Northern loco and a proud video magazine by TM collector showing off a mint-in- • 16564 Western Maryland Center Cupola Books and Videos®. Caboose (Shown in Catalog as 16544) the-box prewar 700E set. This first of a planned 1995: 6-16091 – NYC Passenger Car Set series features a one- Although I still own the original • 16087 NYC Baggage Car videotape series, I’m happy to • 16088 NYC Passenger Car hour program of new • 16089 NYC Dining Car material covering a have this bonus section on DVD. • 16090 NYC Observation Car wide range of interests This new disk is 90 minutes in 1995: 6-19726 – NYC Bay Window Caboose and an additional bo- length and sells for $14.99. Fu- ture volumes will be $14.99 each 1996: 6-11912 – Lionel Steel nus 30-minute program • 18515 Lionel Steel Switcher #57 from the original 1991 tape. The new video if you subscribe to the series or • 51503 Lionel Steel Die-Cast Ore Car covers everything from Standard gauge, $19.99 after they are released. You can see • 51504 Lionel Steel Die-Cast Ore Car postwar, Lionel space and military, hi-rail, the details at www.tmbv.com. • 51502 Lionel Steel Die-Cast Ore Car Available to iPad control of your trains with Lionel’s add-on car Images provided by Bill Schmeelk Layout Control System. Also featured is a trip to TM TrainWorx® where we see some of the

The Lion Roars 28 Ken Morgan RM 12231 The Tinplate Cannonball

Bridges a different meaning to “wet cell battery,” f I were to pose a question – no, not doesn’t it? And to think OSHA is wary of the usual trivia question – I wonder our using the revised ZWs! HIGHLIGHT: how would you answer. What was the Now for Standard gauge bridges. The first I ® first accessory offered by Lionel ? The one catalogued by Lionel was the #105 “The #104 title might give you a hint. It was a bridge. which was made of wood with paper-mâché If we were talking Standard gauge, you ornamentation – trees and a simulated stone center span is could make a case for a tunnel, but in the structure. Although it was listed from 1911 original 2-7/8 inch gauge, the #340 bridge to 1914, it was probably never made. It roughly based was offered from 1902 to 1905. It could be was described as six feet long and probably used in combination with the #380 elevated would have looked like an extended version photo 1 on a tied-arch pillars. See which is taken from two of the later #101. I’m not too sure I’d want to try to run a Standard gauge train span, also called Photo 1 over a wood and papier-mâché bridge even if it were made! Although the 1910 vintage bridges are fairly heavy, a bowstring the later behemoth trains might crush it. This was followed by a second arch.” catalogued but probably not made bridge #103 from 1913-15. It was also to be wood and papier-mâché and 28 inches long. I have the same doubts about its structural viability. After a gap of five years, the #105 and #103 were followed by the #100, #101, #102, #103, and #104 bridges from 1920 to ’31. Looks like Lionel went back to fill in the gaps, except for the duplication of #103. It seemed like a great selection, but it was really an application of Marketing 101: use the same parts in different combina- tions. From my point of view, the most reasonable version is the #101. See photo 2. This has a nice appear- ance, doesn’t take up too much room, slightly different repro versions of the 1903 and has a reasonable gradient. Each catalog. Note that the owner was required to section is 14 inches long, so the whole thing build this, including the tracks which were is 3-½ feet long. By the way, a section of TRIVIA: QUESTION strips of strap steel and wood ties with slots Standard gauge track is 14 inches. Clever, cut into them to accept the two rails. Power huh! About bridges and trivia: was provided by dry cells or perhaps open I would add that the low end of the approach Name a famous war movie beakers of acid with lead plates immersed in section is about ¼-inch high, so the track in which a railroad bridge the fluid. The operator connected the wires leading to it will not be flush on the floor. played a major role? from these plates directly to the track. Gives It sort of floats if all you do is push the pins

Photo 2

The Lion Roars 29 Photo 3

into the tracks. At the other end, it’s 1-1/2 I have operated trains over the #101 and oth- #101s. I just inserted the center span from inches high. OK, pretty steep, but do-able. er than supporting the tracks at both ends to the second one into the better preserved Now look at photos 3 and 4. They are a get up to the initial height of the approach, #101. The colors don’t quite match, but it #100 bridge and a #104 center span respec- it’s pretty smooth. I have not tried the #100. demonstrates the point about the building tively. So now you see the basic building The rather pointed peak impresses me as an blocks. blocks which will continue. Photo 5 is the accident waiting to happen. It is difficult to #102 bridge. It’s a #101 plus a second #104. get the track pins to fit snugly, given that the Unlike many accessories Lionel made Do you want to hazard a guess at what a sections are pointed in distinctly different which, other than size considerations, #103 might be? Yup. Just add another #104 directions. I have not tried the #102, and, were compatible with both O and Standard and you get two approaches and three center as you can probably tell from close inspec- gauge, these bridges are not. Look at photo spans for a total length of 70 inches, just tion of photo 5, what I actually have is two 6. The base is cut for a section of Standard two inches short of six feet.

Photo 5

Photo 4

The Lion Roars 30 gauge track to drop in. The approach sec- more famous Lionel bridge. We’ll look at real bridges were not at “Toko-Ri,” but at tions are similarly pre-cut. We’ll look at that that, too, in the next installment. Majon-ni and Samdong-ni, North Korea. Yes, this is the same author whose book on again in the next installment. The trivia answer – nope, not “The Bridge WWII formed the basis for the play South Before I wrap up this article about Lionel over the River Kwai,” although that might Pacific by Rodgers and Hammerstein. bridges, a little civil engineering is in order. be accepted on “Jeopardy.” I’m looking The #104 center span is roughly based on a for “The Bridges at Toko-Ri” which is a See you next issue with more info about tied-arch span, also called a bowstring arch. film from 1954 based on a novel by James bridges. Look at photo 4 again and see if it doesn’t Michener about U.S. Navy pilots assigned Photographs by Ken Morgan bear at least a minor resemblance to another to bomb a group of heavily defended rail- road bridges during the Korean War. The

Photo 6

The Lion Roars 31 Sterling W. Myers II RM 13386 Lionel’s “Project X”- Helios 21

Part 2 of 2 for changing alternating current (A.C.) into elios 21 had the most lengthy and direct current (D.C.). The rectifier is used complicated operating instructions only if your power source is a toy train of any Lionel® item made before, yet transformer which provides low voltage HIGHLIGHT: H it was advertised for children ages alternating current.” How many youngsters 4-12. Only the operating instructions stated, would understand that? Page five of the “If you have a “The assembly and filling of the Helios 21 same instructions stated, “After several Spaceship is generally a “two-man” opera- months the booster within the Spaceship Helios 21 or tion,” (would a woman customer be turned will become mixed with enough nitrogen other satellite off by that?) “and it is recommended that an from the air so that it will not have enough adult participate or supervise.” lifting power to raise the ship even when in Mint or Like Not a High Flyer all the ballast weights have been removed. No amount of booster will raise the Space- The “extra-fine, five-conductor” cable line New condition, ship at this stage. You will then have to could easily be damaged or cut. Its takeoff empty the ship completely and refill it with was limited to less than 15 feet. The toy I would like to fresh booster. The easiest way to empty the could only be played with indoors – any Spaceship is by using your vacuum cleaner.” hear from you.” wind would cause it to spin out of control. The same instruction sheet then walks the The typical ceiling height of a home in the consumer through many complicated steps 1960s was only eight or nine feet, so even about how to accomplish this feat. At this if a child wanted to play with the Helios point in time, the typical consumer would 21 he would have to take it to a church or be thinking, “Refund!” Of course this is as- the school gym. If you were to inflate one, suming the consumer has not already fallen the first thing that comes to mind is the asleep before turning to page five. propulsion system, which consisted of a lightweight red foam “boat” located at the This probably explains why Lionel placed bottom center of the craft and two light- the “Helios 21” at the back (page 38) of its weight blue foam boats; one on each side. 1965 catalog. What a dynamic change from Each boat contained a their October 1964 statement, “… as we feel tiny motor and a yellow Photo 6 this toy will be the most sought-after item molded plastic this year.” propeller, the The low produc- blades of which tion numbers, are very suscep- the very large tible to curling outfit box, and over time. There the fragility of goes the allusion components ac- of a “21st Cen- counts for the fact tury Spacecraft.” that today, a Mint Honestly, it looks or Like New, in- more like a very the-original-box slow-moving Helios 21 (see dirigible. Months photo 6) com- before its release, plete with original the Lionel sales inserts is extreme- team was pre- ly difficult to find. In more than 45 years of selling it but had not yet seen the production collecting, I have seen only a handful that version; only conceptual drawings. were for sale; complete and in MIB or LN A Complicated Toy condition. Lionel documentation states the Helios Product Packaging 21“operates on two six-volt batteries, The outfit box was in two parts (top and power pack or transformer (not included bottom) with no part number. When the in the unit).” The consumer had to spend customer opened the box, they saw the Lio- more money before they could play with it. nel Operating Instructions – three of them, On page one of the operating instructions all printed in black ink on white paper. The under the paragraph headed “What is in the first was entitled “LIONEL HELIOS 21 Helios 21 outfit,” one noticed, “A rectifier SPACESHIP” with six pages. Pages one The Lion Roars 32 Lionel’s “Project X”- Helios 21 Photo 8

and two and pages five and six were printed through their local retailer to Note: I did not attempt to as one very large sheet of paper that was order such items directly remove the booster tank then folded to form an 8-1/2x11-inch sheet. from the Lionel Service because I’m not a “li- Lionel assigned part number “861-52” and Department. It was an censed bomb expert.” the date “9/64” – refer to the bottom right of 8-½x-11-inch sheet of Nor did I want to page six. Pages three and four were printed white paper with black risk damaging a on an 8-1/2x11-inch sheet and inserted ink. MIB piece. between the above. Lionel assigned part The Booster Also stored in the number “861-65” and the date “9/64” – see Tank tank box is a molded bottom right of page four. According to Lionel’s Op- in black plastic “filler” Another 8-1/2x11-inch sheet entitled erating Instructions, there tube approximately 15 “HELIOS 21 SCHEMATIC” was also was “a No. 866 “booster tank” inches long with an at- enclosed. It is interesting to note that Lionel or “anti-gravity booster” for use tached red warning paper label assigned part number “3060 D” and the date in inflating the Spaceship. Accord- (No. “866-45”) and a molded-in “10/64” to this sheet but did not print a page ing to Lionel, “It is completely harmless, white plastic “dispenser” (No. 860-21). Fig- number – see bottom lower left of page. non-toxic, non-inflammable and odorless” ure four of the Lionel Operating Instructions The schematic was on the front side, but the and packaged inside a thin brown card- explained its use. The “anti-gravity booster” back side was intentionally left blank. Not board box. The box flap shows No. “866- container was far too heavy (made of steel- many collectors are aware of it, but Lionel 30” printed in blue. The box has red and like material) for the internally packaged thin would assign part numbers to operating blue printing on front and back sides with cardboard box. This explains why Lionel did instructions by the sheet in case there was a “Hillside, New Jersey / Made in U.S.A.” not want a child taking it out of the box. It is change only affecting a certain page. Also, in lower right. On both sides of this box, a seldom found today in collector condition. when Lionel chose to have the operating picture of what appears to be a “bomb” in I own a spare booster tank with no box (see instructions produced by an outside firm, blue background with red warning stating: photo 8). a unique part number was given. This “IMPORTANT / DO NOT ATTEMPT TO The Controller explains the difference in part numbering FILL THE ROCKET / SHIP OR SATEL- Located at bottom left of the box is Control- schemes between the operating instructions LITE BEFORE READING THE / COM- ler (No. 874) molded in unpainted 1955 and the schematic. PLETE INSTRUCTIONS INSIDE / THE T-Bird turquoise plastic with two molded-in There is a second set of newer operating in- BOX. CONTENTS UNDER PRESSURE unpainted red plastic control levers (the left structions that were printed / KEEP AWAY FROM HEAT – NEVER lever controls up and down height, and the THROW / CONTAINER INTO FIRE OR in a smaller type font (for Photo 7 right lever controls direction – left, right, wording and diagrams) INCINERATIOR / KEEP OFF forward, reverse). There is a cute but crude and had minor changes RADIATOR OR STOVE AND simulated Radar Space Screen (No. 867-9) in the wording. These OUT / OF DIRECT SUNLIGHT. made of sturdy cardboard that lists the names instructions are I.C.C. Special Permit No. 4176”. of all nine planets known to exist at that time printed on only two Perhaps this explains why many and the sun. Curiously, the screen shows two sheets of 8-1/2x11- collectors shunned this toy. suns and 11 planets. (See photo 9). inch white paper A cardboard Photo 9 with black ink as insert holds four pages back a metal bottle to back. Lionel containing 5.5 assigned part cu. ft. of helium number “861-79” in place with this and the date “10- warning stamped 64.” I believe Lionel in numerous places, decided to reduce the cost “DO NOT REMOVE (four pages, not six) and to correct spelling FROM BOX” (see photo 7). errors. Apparently this decision was made You may be asking, “Why did during the middle of multiple production Lionel repeatedly print this runs, which explains why some sets have warning all over the box?” the early instructions and some just the lat- The operating instructions state: “Leave the There are two cardboard inserts with no ter. Oddly, this set has both! tank in the box. It will serve as a stand.” identifying part numbers approximately 13- The standard “LIONEL ACCESSORY” Also, you will see a large staple on one side ½x3 inches, then bent three inches at both order form sheet was typically placed of box. That was no accident. Lionel stapled ends. These inserts wrap around and hold inside every outfit in 1964. This enabled the box to the top insert to prevent removal the controller in place. Another cardboard customers who could not obtain accessories of the booster tank. The Lion Roars 33 Helios 21 example shown here be one of the very first ones produced by Lionel? Something Completely Different This space age toy was truly different from anything Lionel had manufactured before. This first attempt to make an operator-controlled flying space toy offered unusu- Photo 10 ally detailed and lengthy operating instructions, a somewhat scary propulsion system, and insert with rare embossed printing “860-22” The spacecraft rested on top of a special unique packaging. Its box had a unique type (approximately 8x6-½x1 inches) sits on top cardboard insert (identified with pressed-in font that Lionel never used before. It looks of the controller. Placed loosely inside this dots (Part no. “860 21”). Approximately something like Microsoft’s current “Calibri” insert is a parts envelope with no identifica- 22x19-½ inches with a cutout that matches font. tion on it and factory sealed with a typical the red and blue foam boats. The cardboard “reversed” staple. I assume it contains small sides have three-inch folds all around; some If you have a Helios 21 or other satellite in parts cited in the Operating Instructions, are folded in and some are folded out. A Mint or Like New condition, I would like to such as a “rectifier” and “strain reliefs.” cardboard insert with no identification is hear from you. Please contact me at There is also a set of graduated “ballast approximately 13x15-½ inches; it is at the [email protected]. weights” which are clear plastic pieces of very bottom of the outfit box, underneath Why was the Helios 21 so short-lived and varying widths. All are 3-½ inches long and the 860-21 insert. such a BIG disaster for Lionel? In this two- ¼-inch thick. Six are 1/8-inch wide, two are Finally, there is a cardboard insert with no part article I’ve offered my surmises. Picture ¼-inch wide, two are 3/8-inch wide, and identification separating the tank/controller a mom in 1965 going into a local Lionel two are ½-inch wide. All are still intact and and spacecraft that is 15-½x5-¾ inches. It hobby store because her child desperately hooked to a plastic bar. is interesting to note that whenever Lionel’s wanted this toy for Christmas. If she read The Spacecraft cardboard insert manufacturer shipped a the warning labels and recognized that it Located on right side of box is the Space- packet of cardboard inserts to Lionel they looked and operated something like the craft itself, loosely packed. It is more than always placed on top an insert with Lionel’s German airship Hindenburg that burned to 43 inches long when inflated, but I did not assigned part number raised by punched-in the ground and killed 36 people on May 6, try to inflate it. The instructions state, “An dots. United Container Co. was known to 1937. That information might be off-putting. inflatable Spaceship made from a metalized have done this during the Photo 11 Perhaps that explains why my mom bought laminated film of the type developed during 1960s. me something else for Christmas in 1965. U.S. Aero-Space Programs.” Lionel’s 1964 But I did finally get my wish many years Helios 21 has some similarities to the Space later when I bought this one! Ironically, the Shuttle Enterprise designed by NASA in the Hindenburg disaster occurred near Lakehu- 1970s. The uncanny resemblance suggests rst, NJ, which is about an hour’s drive from that the Helios was ahead of its time. the Lionel factory in Hillside. The colors chosen for the Helios 21 were re- The author acknowledges assistance from ally unique for Lionel. It has red and yellow Paul Ambrose of Ambrose Bauer Trains for flames coming out of the engine on each his insightful contributions and motivation side, also lightning bolts, and four astronauts to write this article. Special thanks to my with the “circle L” Lionel logo and “U.S.A.” adoring wife Deborah of 35 years who has All of these bright colors were printed over sacrificed many times so I could pursue this an even brighter metallic silver background. This set has two one-of-a-kind Lionel origi- fun and exciting hobby. Discovering new See photo 10. nal part numbers embossed on the cardboard insights into Lionel’s manufacturing of toys inserts. See photo 11. I wonder – could this is never boring! Photographs provided by Sterling W. Myers II

The Lion Roars 34 Gene Russell, Ed.D. RM 24608 A Lionel Puzzlement

LCCA Member A LCCA Member B Phone Talk The correct letter for each number will give the answer of the Lionel items LCCA Member A wishes to purchase. Place the letter above the number. Enjoy! 1. ______2 8 5 8 3 7 8 5 6 2 3 3 7 2. ______3 4 3 7 3 5 4 6 7 6 7 4 3 3 3. ______5 4 6 6 3 5 4 3 5 4 7 6 7 8 4. ______3 9 7 5 6 3 4 6 4 2 6 9 2 2 7 5. ______4 8 3 7 6 6 2 2 9 8 2 6 5 3 7 6. ______3 7 2 6 5 7 4 6 8 3 6 4 7 8 2 6 3 7. ______5 2 2 5 2 9 2 6 6 2 2 2 2 6 6 7 3 8. ______7 2 7 6 6 4 3 6 2 3 8 2 5 6 4 6 8 2 2 7 9. ______7 6 8 5 8 7 9 3 4 7 7 2 8 2 4 10. ______6 4 5 3 3 7 7 4 2 5 11. ______2 5 8 3 2 6 6 3 8 7 8 5 5 6 2 6 12. ______4 3 5 5 4 2 8 3 2 7 4 3 4 3

Answers are published in TLR … somewhere. The Lion Roars 35 Gary Richman RM 30332 ® Lionel’s Train Club Liaison and Editor of Inside Track News from Lionel

The Weatherman his hobby a full-time vocation. About five arry Hieke defies the classic witti- years ago, the late Lou Caponi persuaded cism, “Everybody complains about Harry to work on three-rail trains and resin the weather, but nobody does anything accessories on projects for LCCA, and now HIGHLIGHT: Habout it.” Harry Hieke does something for Lionel. about the weather; he realistically applies To achieve a high level of realism, Harry “Each of Harry’s its ravages to model railroad locomotives begins with careful observation and under- and layout buildings in a way that just might standing of the natural processes. How does ® locomotives is a fool Mother Nature. The Lionel 2013 Fall snow and rain, even acid rain, impact the Catalog includes an O scale 4-12-2 steam various locomotive surfaces? Where and unique creation. locomotive and two O scale RF-16 Shark- how do the corrosive elements of the natural nose diesels, each hand-weathered by this railroading environment – cinders, soot, “If Da Vinci master artist and craftsman. lime and dirt – impact a locomotive? We sat down with Harry Hieke to learn Scale, Rust, Chalk painted two Mona about how he got started in the hobby and and Grime just what it takes to transform the perfect To begin, water and more Lisas,” says Harry, finish of one of our brand new locos into the especially steam, leaves its look of a veteran of years of heavy hauling. mark on all steam locomo- “they would look We want to share a few of the fascinating tives. If you ever had hard things we learned. water at your home, you alike but they Hobbyist as Master are familiar with the resi- Craftsman due of scale left on sinks wouldn’t be Introduced to model railroading by his fa- and tubs. For railroads the ther when he was still a toddler and blessed problem was more seri- identical.” with exceptional hand-eye coordination ous than discoloration, and manual dexterity, Harry was build- scale tended to clog pipes and ing trains as a teenager. When he got back valves. Railroads, especially western into the hobby in the 1980s with two-rail roads, had a hard time getting enough pure brass models, people admired his work and water. The white traces of scale dripping regularly asked him to build or decorate down the sides is a universal feature of trains for them. In 1998 he decided to make steam locomotives. Even railroads like

Harry as a small child takes to the controls of his father’s Lionel layout. Harry today, slightly weathered by Mother Nature.

Photographs provided by Harry Hieke

The Lion Roars 36 Norfolk & Western that invested in massive smoke boxes and fireboxes of steamers with truck bearing and journals leading to corro- water softening tanks couldn’t fully escape graphite – not silver – paint. These surfaces, sion, no matter how heavily and frequently scale’s negative consequences or the telltale hotter than a boiling teakettle, react differ- railroads apply protective paint. signature it left behind. ently than the black surfaces. Diesels, with Science and Art no steaming hot surfaces, have their own Rust is another consequence of weather and Creatively applying all this understanding characteristic scars. Each has a lot of doors steam on a locomotive’s various surfaces. transforms his insights into model railroad and panels with hinges and handles that tend To get it just right, Harry says, you have to art. Harry uses an airbrush to replicate the to drip rust down the side of the locomotive understand that iron and steel react dif- film-like layer of weathering that envelopes body. ferently and at different rates. Retarding a locomotive. He notes that it is not some- rust is one reason the railroads painted the Chalking is another result of weather, partic- thing you can “paint on.” Gravity is the ularly from the road name and numbers on most powerful agent in natural weathering, steam locomotives. Harry says these mark- pulling everything inexorably toward the ings were made with something more akin ground, so all of Harry’s strokes are vertical. to paste than paint that drips a chalky “If you are working horizontally, you are residue as it degrades over time. already in trouble,” says Harry. Finally the Diesels acquire unique weathering work is sealed and protected with a layer of characteristics from their fuel. The dull coat, which ironically highlights all the combustion of fuel oil, like the detail more than a high gloss finish. gasoline in your car, is never total Each of Harry’s locomotives is a unique and the exhaust vented up, settles creation. “If Da Vinci painted two Mona down as a sticky film that holds Lisas,” says Harry, “they would look alike dirt and grime. Any oil and diesel but they wouldn’t be identical.” So each of fuel spilled around filler caps has Harry’s locomotives embodies the common the same effect. experience of a working life on the rails but Another aging force is the each is expressed in slightly different hues mixture of ballast and stones that a and reflectivity by the hand of a master. fast moving locomotive kicks up as You can see the new weathered Lionel it goes. Harry describes it locomotives in action and more of Harry’s as a ground wave, much work on his YouTube channel at like the wake of boat, www.youtube.com/user/EverythingOScale. that chips paint and assaults the Images provided by Lionel LLC Racks and Racers

What a pair! Designed by the LCCA and made by Lionel®, these two Wabash Evans-type Autoloaders will be available with a total of eight 1/43-scale die-cast NASCAR® racers – all with unique mark- ings. We consider these racks and the racers as To enhance the 2014 LCCA Convention experience, con- instant collectibles because of the bold design and ventioneers in attendance who purchase the Autoloader Lionel die-cast NASCAR autos. will have the opportunity to “earn” the NASCAR autos by In 2014 LCCA will join with Lionel and NASCAR to attending designated events at the Convention. host a great convention in a great city. Together, Later in 2014, the blue-base Autoloader will be offered to we’ll celebrate our first 45 years of history as the members for separate sale as a commemorative of LCCA’s “best toy train club on the planet.” 45th anniversary year. That rack with four die-cast racers The white-base Autoloader can be will be considered a companion because purchased at the LCCA 2014 it will be color-matched and will Convention as our On-site carry four accompanying Car. For the first time, this NASCAR autos. car will be Each one will be available to any mem- different from the ber who registers four previous for the Convention, NASCAR autos. whether they are able Bring home or to get to Indy and acquire a memento attend the Convention of our 2014 Con- personally or not. vention and then add Please review specific info the companion rack and regarding non-attendance sales racers as a commemorative of before registering and ordering. Only 45 years of fun in the LCCA. Rev up 400 On-site Cars have been ordered, and no your computer and get registered! For additional more will be produced. They will be sold on a first- details about the autoloaders, the autos, or the distribution come, first-served basis. The autos are also limited details, visit the website. in number.

www.lionelcollectors.org Where the racks and racers are ready to run!