While cleaning out my mother-in-laws basement, I found the following model RR Engine and car: An Ives Railway Lines" #3242R engine. The Ives Manufacturing Co, Bridgeport, Conn. Green in color and shaped something like a trolly car from San Francisco but is an electric train engine. The engine is 12.5" long from bumper to bumper, a total height of 5" and width of about 3.5". It has to be over 50 yrs old.
The second car, in poor shape, is Ives labeled "Pullman" "Parlor Car"#185. At one time a tiny electric light in the ceiling would have been lit when the train was moving. The top of the car is hinged so that you can lift the top and look inside. Maybe at one time there were seats, etc. but are now long gone. The car body is 12" long, 5" tall and 3.25" wide.
Can anyone give me general historic information and possible value on my discovery?
Posted by jcater (Member # 31) on :
Although I am no expert when it comes to classic toy trains, I know that Ives was a major manufacturer of model railroad stuff, possibly in the 1930s. Railroad Model Craftsman did an entire series regarding the history of model railroading and the manufacturers of those models. I know that they did one part of the series on Ives. You can get back issues from them on line at http://carstens.com You may even be able to post questions about it to them. Also, another magazine that may help is Classic Toy Trains. I am sure that there are other folks out there who can help you as well. Good luck and let us know what you find out!! Happy Modeling!! John
------------------ The Santa Fe and Southwestern, Chief of the Southwest!
Posted by JMH (Member # 331) on :
Actually, I believe they are older then that. Ives was big during the turn of the centry to the 20's. Yes, I mean 1900-1920. You models could be very valuable, although condition and completeness is critical to super value. Do they have the original boxes? Accessories are actually more valuable sometimes then the rolling stock. You should find someone form the Toy Train Association to help you. You can go on line and find the organization and probably get the best help. Be careful, this stuff could be worth real cash.
Posted by JMH (Member # 331) on :
If you go to Ebay, and type in Ives Electric, you may get a surprise.