Lionel Celebrates 125 Years!

CELEBRATING INNOVATION, TRADITION, AND CRAFTSMANSHIP

The Legend of Lionel

Joshua Lionel Cowen

1877-1965 (88 years)

Joshua Lionel Cowen

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

1900
1915
1934
1946
1950
1963
1980
2009
2014
2025

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.

Lionel Celebrates 125 Years!

Since 1900, Lionel has brought families together with extraordinary toys that allow adults to feel like kids again. With heart and passion in every creation, Lionel will continue to spark joy and lasting memories.


FROM THE ARCHIVE

IN THE FACTORY

Join us as we celebrate Lionel's 125th anniversary
with special events all year long!

Visit LionelStore.com to join our historic celebration and discover all that Lionel has to offer.
Let's honor the past and look forward to exciting milestones ahead!

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