How Bachmann Industries Developed Model Trains

One would be surprised to learn that Bachmann Industries did not start manufacturing products for the model train industry.  We can trace its humble origins back to Henry Carlisle, a German immigrant, who founded the company in 1833.  At the time, Carlisle’s company concentrated on umbrella handles, hair combs, and cane handles made from tortoise shells and ivory. A great part of this business focused the high-back Spanish comb manufacturer for American aristocrats from the Southern states such as Louisiana. Then in 1899, this business merged with a competing company run by Henry G. Bachmann. The new company became known as Bachmann Brothers. 

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Bachmann Industries actually did not enter the model train business until 114 years after the company was formed.  Shortly after the turn of the 20th century, the company began manufacturing optical frames and sunglasses.  In fact, Bachmann Brothers became the first USA manufacturer of sunglasses which became popular with US Army personnel during World War II.

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After World War II ended, the company created products under the brand, Plasticville USA.  At the time, this product was a do-it-yourself kit of buildings and structures designed to enhance the model train layout.  These products quickly emerged as accessories for the most popular electric trains during this time, Lionel and American Flyer.  Even to this day, the Plasticville products are traditional favorites for model train collectors around the world.

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Bachmann did not create its first model train until 1968 when the company introduced its N scale model train products.  Then, two years later, the company expanded its product line entering the HO trains market.  Since then, Bachmann model trains have become one of the most appealing and are available in different types to meet the needs of consumers. These trains are also among the most popular and attractive models that hobbyists prefer to collect. These kinds of model trains give people the chance of buying both new and antique collectibles.

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For many years, Bachmann trains have been among the top selling trains as far as quality and volume is concerned. These trains have increased in popularity because of their affordability, high-quality, complete accessory lines, details, building structures, and add-ons in the market. On top of their fine qualities, these model trains are expansive enough to fit in limited spaces. Bachmann model trains are also available in the popular HO and O scale, which are common model train scales at all levels of experience.

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Today, Bachmann Industries is actually a Chinese-owned company that specializes in model railroading products.  Its parent company, Kader Group, originally purchased the company in 1981 and has grown the Bachmann brand to become the largest volume seller of model trains.  In addition, the company creates products for all popular model train scales except the z-scale model train.  Looking back, it’s amazing to see how the Bachmann model train emerged from a company whose original business was in a completely different industry.  This would surely be an interesting topic of discussion with other model train enthusiasts.

Learn how to make your own model train: impartialreviews.org/model-trains-for-beginners-review/