Video Gallery
This layout was featured in a few films. The most famous of which is
probably Iron Ponies. Originally released by RKO Pathe in 1949, it showed the layout in
its original form. Lionel re- released the film in 1952 with additional footage. Below is
the entire film with the additional material added for the 1952 edit. In the scene can be
found Official New York Greeter Grover Whalen and actor William Gargan along with the
salesman.
Iron
Ponies 1952
11 Minutes 20 Seconds
Another film, entitled Railroad Story, was released around 1951 by
Castle Films. Although there are scenes of real trains, a full three and one half minutes
show toy trains. Much of this footage was shot in the Lionel Showroom. This clip has
Lionel salesman Myles Walsh demonstrating the layout to a young boy.
Railroad
Story 1951
8 Minutes 32 Seconds
This clip is from a newsreel from 1957. The layout was covered with
"snow" and many of the new trains can be seen running. Included are the
Virginian FM and 665 steamer. This may be one of the last films taken before the layout
was dismantled and the Super "O" layout was built.
Newsreel
Clip 1957
32 Seconds
JOSEPH L. MANIA TOY TRAIN REPRODUCTIONS
AND RESTORATIONS
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