Source for department store Lionel layouts.

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

I’m sure it has been asked.

Is there a good source for the department store layout pictures / track plans that were in stores in the late fifties? I have seen a couple in MR but not as big as most were. Most were Lionel I believe.

Any info would be appreciated.

Jon - Las Vegas

2

I believe what you’re looking for is Roger Carp’s Classic Lionel Display Layouts you can Build. It’s currently out of print, but you could probably find a copy on Ebay, Half.com, or some other place.

3

Thanks – Jon

4

The Doctor is In !!! I must humbly point out that I bought the above mentioned book in my local train shop last month. A new copy by the way. My advise is to check the web site for Kalmbach books and go from there. Just my humble[2c] .
Till My Next Missive, I Remain The Humble, Yet Strangly Evil Doctor!!!

5

Roger’s excellent book is also a source I would recommend. I wasn’t aware it was out of print, but you should be able to find a copy at most any well-stocked train shop. And I imagine readers here will steer you to specific stores that may still have copies on-hand. Then, a copy of the book should be just a phone call away.

6

That book is in some libraries as well. The library is always a good place to look for out-of-print books. The public library systems in and around St. Louis (yes, there are more than one–politics at work) have a very good selection of model railroading and toy train books. Kansas City’s selection isn’t bad either, so I suspect a lot of cities’ libraries would have some.