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.
model railroad image
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.
model train image
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.
model train picture
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.
model railroad photo
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.
model train image
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.
Model trains do not simply run on a landscape which is empty; it needs to have a geographical setting also known as scenery.The model train scenery is an important part of the layout of the railroad.
The geographical terrain and the period of time can have a dramatic impact on
the display and overall presentation.
model train
Typically, the model train scenery
is made in such a way as to reflect the locality which one has opted for and
realistically match the desired theme. For instance, a logging model train
ought to operate on a mountainous area which is also rugged and has a plenty of
trees or a lumber yard; it shouldn’t be displayed in an agricultural area with
numerous farms and pastures. As you can imagine, the model train scenery should
complement the purpose of the train.
model railroad
The model train scale also helps
determines the type of scene that will appear along the train tracks. For
instance, if the desired scenery is an urban scene with different parks,
playgrounds and neighborhoods, then one must make sure the proper accessories
are available for the specific model train scale that will be displayed. It
would look odd if the model train was proportionally larger or smaller than the
buildings and other objects displayed. While this tends to increase complexity
of the scene, including such details will certainly be more appealing to look
at.
model trains
Another interesting use of scenery
is to create depth.The model train
scenery can be constructed in such a way as to appear larger if different sizes
and pieces have been included in the scenery. The use of smaller buildings and
trees in the background while simultaneously placing larger buildings and trees
near the foreground creates an illusion of depth.Clearly, the creation of this type of scenery
adds a level of sophistication and customization to further differentiate one’s
scenery.
model train photo
Besides depth, some model train hobbyists increase the realism of their scenery through the use of photographs, lighting, and real world material.Photographs of scenery can be blown up and displayed as a background setting.In addition, the scenery can be
further enhanced by lighting to create the illusion of sunset or evening.Finally, an enthusiast can go one step
further by using actual small shrubs, bushes, and rocks to provide even more
authenticity.
model train pic
Building model train scenery
requires careful thought and planning.However, with so many choices for accessories and details available, the
hobbyist has no limit on what could be created.For this reason alone, some model train enthusiasts find the intricate construction of the landscape and scenery to be the most enjoyable aspect of this hobby. The most important thing is to have fun and make sure that scenery makes sense regardless if it has been completely custom-made or built through pre-fabricated parts commercially available.
