For the Love of Trains

I often get asked “where do you get these ideas”? 

Well, if you know me, it’s not a short answer. Nor is it a simple response. But like most of you, I have always loved trains.

As you might know, I’m a railroad modeler. I love to build the miniature world and operate the trains in a way they did ‘back in the day’. When you look at the different ‘series’ of trains I produce, many are based only from ideas in my own mind. As things go, one leads to another. Each ‘series’ has its’ own story and each story is fun to remember.

In 1994 I commissioned Micro-Trains to produce a special run for me. My first, of what has become much more than I ever expected.

Here is a photo of that first car. I had it made as a celebrating reminder of the 125th anniversary of the the Gold Spike.

Here we are now, about to celebrate the 150th anniversary of something that was such an accomplishment back in 1869. Our nation has never been the same, and I suppose I can say that my decision to make this Gold Spike special run certainly changed me as well.

Lowell

Lowell Smith

A native of Portland, Oregon, Lowell Smith married his church choir sweetheart Barb in 1978. After a lifetime of rail-fanning, Lowell and Barb ventured out in 1992 to launch a new business in Portland, Oregon. Read more

Latest On The Track

What They Say:

Paul G.

I just received my Carolwood Pacific cars yesterday. They are exquisite! Every attention to detail was paid here, and I can’t thank you enough for putting this into production.  They are going to look amazing, circling my main Street miniatures display.

J.Wallace

AFT is a real dream come true for me. Thanks for all your hard work!

J.R.

Lowell, I received my Great Locomotive Chase set today. “THEY ARE BEAUTIFUL.” Keep up the good work.

Dan D.

I look forward to continuing to buy trains from my favorite special run train maker. That’s how I think of you now, “The Train Maker”.  And speaking of cool trains, I just received a box loaded with great looking Texas Special cars. Thanks.  I certainly look forward to all the new releases you are planning.

Jerry

I really am enjoying what you are producing, Lowell! Thanks for doing it. Jerry

M. Magliaro

I received my #99 business card in the mail today. It looks superb. Thank you for another wonderful job. You are really filling a niche.

J. Arenas

Wow… You made my dream come true with the CK Holiday! I am a great admirer of your work.

D.

“You have no idea how excited I am about these cars . . .”

S. Reames

I received my observation/business car today and – like all of my other cars from you – I love it!

Rick S.

Every new release from your Signature Series gets me revved up for the rails.