In 1937 the Lionel Corporation had discovered how to make their toy engines more realistic by using high pressure die casting in order to get the details required to make a train engine more than just a toy... they new represented "The real thing". This was the trend of model railroading hobbist who wanted to make their layouts as close to scale and as realistic as possible.

	This picture depics the "Lionel O-Gauge" layout, circa 1941. This was the last year of production for almost all toys due to the shortage of materials which were diverted to the war effort. The Bird Refuge in the middle of this scene was inspired by Santa Barbara's own railroad tracks alongside the "Real Bird Refuge".
Milk delivery was a way of life during the years between the Wars. This early Arcade Stake Truck seems to be making its rounds while getting a friendly greeting from two Victorian Ladies.
	Another view of the "Lionel O-Gauge" layout shows a busy group of Barclay firemen trying to dowse the flames from an uncontrolled blaze in the power house. The Police are holding up traffic while a dog does not understand all the commotion that is taking place.

Visit Layout 3: Standard Gauge Trains

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