All Aboard! Trains for Christmas

The Beaulne Museum’s 50th anniversary celebrations offer an opportunity to highlight certain facets of the railway world, a theme that is central to the Museum’s permanent exhibition.

The tradition of model trains dates back to the early 19th century, when the Industrial Revolution sparked a fascination with train travel. The first toy trains were made of wood and powered by wind-up mechanisms or pulled by other toys. Following the advent of electric trains in the 1930s, the popularity of model trains exploded, leading to the creation of several successful brands. This growing enthusiasm has led to the emergence of numerous collectors who indulge their passion, especially as technological advancements continue. Starting in the year 2000s, model trains with digital control systems (DCC) entered the market, offering sophisticated features.