train: Greater Northern Empire Builder Combine

The introduction of railroading in the 19th century demonstrated the effects of advanced American infrastructure. Locomotives represented the latest industrial technology, propelled the economy, provided convenience of speed, and offered freedom for Americans seeking to travel beyond their hometown. Toy manufacturers quickly caught on to the excitement and novelty of train excursions. Play with trains has been a rite of passage for generations of Americans. Toy trains have also become a hands-on hobby for adults. Many train collectors not only obtain the trains they had as a child, but the trains they wanted as a child. Jerry Williams, a maker of reproductions of vintage Lionel and Ives standard gauge trains, founded Williams Electric Trains in 1971. Many considered Williams Electric Trains a maker of reproduction 1950 Lionel products, however, the company����_��s offerings varied, as Williams often added details that would not have been possible with the use 1950 manufacturing methods.