Many companies come and go, but one that always stays on track in the toy industry is Lionel Trains. Running on innovation and craftsmanship, the model train company rides the rails of success while maintaining a timeless appeal for enthusiasts of all ages.
Although American inventor and entrepreneur Joshua Lionel Cowen wasn’t the first to manufacture toy trains during the 1900s, he revolutionized the model train industry with his first invention: the Electric Express. Designed as an eye-catching display for toy stores, the model laid the foundation for Lionel — a company built on Cowen’s legacy of innovation and imagination.
“We have a motto that Lionel is about memories that last a lifetime, and those memories exist because it’s an experiential and multi-generational product,” says Howard Hitchcock, CEO of Lionel Trains. “We have always prided ourselves on quality new technology, innovation, and partnerships — especially when it comes to licensing. Those are things we’ve continued to embrace throughout Lionel’s history, and they’ve made it a special and cherished brand for so many enthusiasts.”
The year-long 125th anniversary celebration officially left the station on Oct. 1, 2024. From product debuts at trade shows to a panel at New York Comic Con (NYCC), Lionel has marked the milestone with special events, limited-edition products, and interactive experiences.
On the Fast Tracks
Fueled by Cowen’s spirit, Lionel charges ahead through economic changes and evolving consumer tastes by leaning into innovation and detailed craftsmanship. From its early days producing electronic trains hailed as the “Standard of the World” to incorporating Bluetooth technology in its models, Lionel is blending history with modern features.
The company celebrates 125 years with an anniversary catalog filled with locomotives, boxcars, and handcars. New launches showcase Lionel 125 branding and color schemes, while re-imagined classics pay tribute to historical items, including the Pennsylvania Legacy S2, the Lionel Lines Postwar Inspired 21-inch Passenger 4-Pack, the Lackawanna Trainmaster Postwar Set, and the Vision Hudson Prewar Set.
“Our team really pored over catalogs and old history,” Hitchcock says. “There are iconic pieces that exist in our history that we pay homage to, but we’re not using the original tools or the manufacturing processes. We’re embracing the history and uniqueness of each item, adding a modern twist and new innovations. That’s what keeps Lionel relevant.”
As a train needs engineers and conductors to run, Lionel recognizes that its 125th anniversary wouldn’t be possible without the steam power of its loyal team and devoted community.
“This milestone is not only a celebration of our legacy but also a reflection of the enduring passion and loyalty of the Lionel community,” says Mike Phillips, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Lionel Trains. “We are deeply grateful to our dedicated customers and partners who’ve supported us throughout this journey. As we look to the future, we remain committed to delivering the highest quality products and experiences that continue to inspire and bring joy to model train enthusiasts worldwide.”
The 125th anniversary train made a notable stop on May 2 at Atrium Health Ballpark in collaboration with the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers. Baseball fans and train enthusiasts hopped aboard a celebration filled with train whistles, mascots, and post-game fireworks.
“We had a great night with a local AAA baseball team and kicked off the first two of our Lionel headquarters facility tours, which have been super well received,” Hitchcock says. “We’ve got people from all over the country — from as far away as California — who came specifically for that event. It’s really cool to see that level of passion.”
Full Steam Ahead
With the anniversary celebration running through the end of the year, Lionel still has more surprises waiting at the end of the tunnel.
New product launches will roll out at NYCC in October. Last year, the company revealed four exclusive models at the show, including the Batman 85th Anniversary Boxcar, and unveiled its first-ever Star Wars collaboration. This year promises even more excitement for the model train community.
“We’re excited to return to NYCC,” Hitchcock says. “It’s a great way to connect with both longtime fans and new ones, and tap into the passion behind our licensed products. We’ll have some additional fall releases, and then we also have some great partnerships.”
Train hobbyists can add more models to their tracks with unique products, such as a new line of LED illuminated boxcars to honor America’s 250th Anniversary, LionChief locomotives with new tooling, and more additions to the Star Wars collection. The celebration culminates on Dec. 6 with the 11th National Lionel Train Day, which will include an exclusive collectible boxcar.
Even after 125 years, Lionel continues to evolve while honoring Cowen’s original vision. With a mission to bring families together and foster lasting connections across generations, the company remains a leader in the model train category.
“We’re always looking to engage,” Hitchcock adds. “It’s truly our consumers who have kept us going for 125 years, and they’ve always been our priority. Because of them, we’re always looking for ways to improve and innovate further.”
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A version of this feature first appeared in the 2025 LA Fall Toy Preview Issue of The Toy Book. Read the full issue here!
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