Two Little Fleas........... Number Thirty Three

A very interesting and welcome arrival at the Trainbarn today was a Lionel Number 33 electric loco, made in about 1916.  I need to do some more research before I can date it more accurately than that, but it is most certainly the oldest loco in the collection.  It's in amazing condition, and apparently runs well, although I haven't tested it yet.  I find it incredible that a toy made nearly 100 years ago can survive in such good condition.  I've seen quite a few #33s on eBay, but there's usually something wrong somewhere- replica parts, repaint, doesn't run etc.  This one was worth waiting for!!

I have a few contemporary freight cars to go with it, although they're very slightly newer (Lionel Corporation).  I want to find out what cars came with the loco in the various sets available back then, and recreate a typical set.  I really like these older cars and locos, they have a certain charm, despite their primitiveness.

Here's another shot, taken outside.

Eventually, when the Trainbarn is actually built (hopefully later this year) one of the layouts will be dedicated to these older trains, and will be a 'classic' toy train layout, using green carpet and loops of O, Standard and 2 7/8" gauge track.  The inspiration for this definitely comes from one of the late Ward Kimball's layouts, although his collection was way beyond anything I might be able to put together.


There has been quite a bit of progress around Whistlestop lately too, and I'll update that in the next couple of days.  The weather is getting cooler now as Autumn (Fall) progresses, which is superb for working outside.  It's been a good day!!