CELEBRATING INNOVATION, TRADITION, AND CRAFTSMANSHIP
The Legend of Lionel
Joshua Lionel Cowen
1877-1965 (88 years)
The Legend of Lionel
Joshua Lionel Cowen
1877-1965 (88 years)
Joshua Lionel Cowen was an American inventor and entrepreneur best known for founding Lionel Corporation in 1900. He revolutionized the model train industry with innovative electric toy trains, making Lionel a household name in model railroading. His designs captivated generations and cemented Lionel as a leader in the toy train market.
Cowen’s legacy lives on through Lionel Trains, a brand still loved by model train fans today. His early electric train designs changed the hobby forever. Lionel continues to create innovative and detailed trains, keeping Cowen’s spirit alive and inspiring new generations to enjoy model railroading.
Cowen’s legacy lives on through Lionel Trains, a brand still loved by model train fans today. His early electric train designs changed the hobby forever. Lionel continues to create innovative and detailed trains, keeping Cowen’s spirit alive and inspiring new generations to enjoy model railroading.
ALL ABOARD TO CELEBRATE LIONEL'S 125TH ANNIVERSARY
Key Milestones in Lionel's Iconic Journey
Lionel is Founded
Joshua Lionel Cowen founded Lionel Manufacturing Company near City Hall in NYC
Lionel O-Gauge
O-gauge trains and track debuted, ultimately replacing Standard Gauge by the 1930's
Mickey Mouse Handcar
The Mickey wind-up handcar - priced at only $1 - saves Lionel
Smoke
"Smoke" for Lionel steam locomotives debuts, as do the Pennsylvania S-2 steam turbine locomotive and a realistic water tower.
Joe DiMaggio
Joe DiMaggio, star player for the New York Yankees, hosts "The Lionel Club House" on NBC television.
1963 Catalog
This cover from the 1963 catalog, which is unintentionally symbolic, shows a racecar outrunning a locomotive.
Joshua's 100th Birthday
Joshua Lionel Cowen's life story is featured on the sides of commemorative boxcars.
VisionLine
The "Vision Line" of highly detailed scale locomotives with the most advanced features ever offered is introduced.
Lionel Moves to NC
Howard Hitchcock is named president of LIONEL L.L.C.
Lionel shuts down its offices in New York City and moves its global headquarters to Concord, N.C.
FROM THE ARCHIVE
IN THE FACTORY
Join us as we celebrate Lionel's 125th anniversary
with special events all year long!
