The fun hobby of collecting and operating Lionel model trains finds new enthusiasts every day. Perhaps you
are visiting this website for the first time as a "newbie."
Lionel Model Train Collectors
The holiday train layout at the home of LCCA member Ken Morgan includes "O" and "Standard O" vintage trains.
Members of the Lionel Collectors Club of America are folks from all walks of life who love to operate or collect
toy trains from all eras. For many, that joy in model railroading began in childhood when a Lionel electric train
was the toy of choice and Lionel was one of the most recognized trademarks in the world. Many club members still
vividly recall a childhood memory of that special Christmas when Santa (with some help from dad and mom) placed
a Lionel train set under the holiday tree.
Train Hobbyists
LCCA members are hobbyists who actively seek and find Lionel toy trains and operate
or display them at home or in the office. Many members create fascinating train layouts that take advantage of
today's exciting technological advances. Thanks to digitally reproduced sounds and modern control systems, many
of today's toy trains sound like the actual prototype locomotives.
A scene from the "high rail" home layout of LCCA member Jim Richardson
Some LCCA members enjoy other train-related pursuits: railroad history, period architecture and
historic preservation; or a yearning to ride real trains aboard Amtrak or tourist excursion railways. Some are
loyal to a favorite railroad, the line that served their hometown, for example, so they collect Lionel model
trains exclusively of that railroad. Others are focused on a certain era of railroading -- Old Time Railroads,
the Steam Era, Electrified Trains, First Generation Diesels or the Modern Era -- and as craftsmen they plan
their model train layout appropriate to the specific technology of that era.
Celebrity Collectors
Did you know there are many celebrities who have train collections? TV talk show hosts, Sally Jessy Raphael
and Tom Snyder, and actor/singer Mandy Patinkin are a few famous Lionel train collectors-operators. Frank Sinatra
even built a special building on his Palm Springs compound to house his operating 1949 train station layout.
Why Lionel?
The mountain locale of the layout of LCCA member Terry Johnson.
"Lionel" is part of the club name because members favor the trains made by the Lionel Company begun in 1900
by Joshua Lionel Cowen. The Lionel model railroad brand is still produced by Lionel LLC, and
it remains a leader in the toy train manufacturing industry. Lionel has produced
quality toy trains for more than a century, and the legend lives on.
We love trains and love sharing our interest in the hobby with others, especially today's families. Many kids have
never seen a model steam locomotive because they missed the golden age of model railroading. Toy trains hold a
fascination for today's children as they have for generations. Our annual conventions always include large operating
displays open to the public free of charge. Visit LCCA Member Benefits for club advantages and membership exclusives.
Click here for the LCCA membership application and join others who share your love for Lionel model trains.
