A Century of Lionel Legendary Trains is a documentary-style television show produced by Janson Media, which dives deep into the world of iconic model railway brand Lionel Trains. Hosted by Tom Snyder, the show takes us on a journey through the rich history of Lionel, examining their most famous and well-loved model train sets and discussing the impact Lionel has had on the world of model railways.
The show opens with an introduction to the Lionel brand, discussing their origins in 1900 and how they quickly became the go-to manufacturer for model train enthusiasts in the United States. We see some of the earliest Lionel models, all the way up to the present day, and hear from experts in the field about how Lionel has continued to innovate and evolve over the years.
Throughout the show, Snyder takes us on a tour of some of Lionel's most famous model train sets, including the classic Lionel 700E Scale Hudson Steam Locomotive from 1937 and the Lionel Blue Comet from 1935, a luxurious standardized passenger railroad service set that was inspired by the original Blue Comet train that ran along the Central Railroad of New Jersey from 1929 to 1941. Snyder sets each model in context, sharing information about the history of the set and how it was received by the public at the time of its release.
The show also spends a significant amount of time exploring the various accessories and add-ons that Lionel has created over the years, such as the Lionel Power and Control system, the Lionel ZW Transformer, and the Lionel No. 260 Illuminated Bumper. Snyder discusses the importance of these accessories in creating a fully-realized model railway, and how Lionel's commitment to quality and attention to detail made their accessories stand out from other brands.
One particularly interesting segment of the show explores the use of Lionel trains during World War II. Snyder talks to historians who explain that Lionel sets were used by the US military to simulate realistic train movements, which helped troops prepare for transporting supplies and equipment during wartime. Lionel also created a set specifically for military use, which featured camouflage paint and was specially designed to be transported via Jeep or aircraft.
As the show progresses, Snyder highlights some of the rarest and most valuable Lionel models, including the Lionel Smithsonian Boxcar from 1979, which was created to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Smithsonian Institution, and the Lionel Texas Special Passenger Set from 1954, which was limited in production and extremely rare. By introducing us to some of the most sought-after Lionel models, Snyder gives us a sense of just how beloved and treasured this brand is among model railway enthusiasts.
The show ends with a discussion of Lionel's future, exploring the challenges and opportunities facing the brand in a modern world. Snyder talks to Lionel representatives about how they are adapting to new technologies and innovating new ways to engage with customers, while still maintaining the traditional quality and attention to detail that has made Lionel a household name for over a century.
Overall, A Century of Lionel Legendary Trains is an engaging and informative show that will delight anyone with an interest in model railways, history, or Americana. Snyder's enthusiasm for the subject matter is infectious, and the show is full of interesting facts and insights that will surprise even the most knowledgeable Lionel fan. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just someone looking to learn more about this iconic American brand, A Century of Lionel Legendary Trains is not to be missed.
