I was looking at Bachmanns logo, and it says, “Quality since 1833” Were there model trains even in 1900? Were trains even INVENTED in 1833?
It says Quality since 1833, not trains since 1833…
From the company site:
The business was started in America in 1833 by Henry Carlisle. He was a manufacturer of products made from horn, ivory and tortoise shell. A large part of this business in that era was the manufacture of high-back Spanish combs for the ladies of the Southern States.
After the American Civil War this business, of course, was lost. The manufacture of side combs, dressing combs, barettes, and other hair ornaments was continued on a large scale from both horn and tortoise shell. Hand carved ivory umbrella handles were also made at that time.
In 1899, the business was merged with that of Henry G. Bachmann, a German immigrant who was engaged in a similar business with his son, Walter J. Bachmann.
Another son, Henry E. Bachmann, was at that time managing the business of Henry Carlisle.
The Kader Company was established in 1948 with for purpose of making models and toys for export around the world. In 1952 Kader made the first Model Trains for Bachmann‘s American market. This relationship developed and prospered until 1984, when Kader acquired the Bachmann Company in its entirety.
The Tom Thumb was built in the USA 1829-30 and railways or tramways go back even further in England. “The Best Friends” first excursion the USA dates back to 1831.
[#ditto]
Ahhh, I see.
The first locomotive to run on rails was built in 1804 in England by Richard Trevithick. Designated the “Catch Me Who Can,” it was used as almost a carnival ride, only having a circle of track and a few cars.