History of Classic Model Trains

Classic Model Trains (CMT) was founded in 1969 by Fred Mills and Jerry Williams as “Classic Models Corp” and was later renamed “Classic Model Trains” by Charlie Wood when he purchased the company in 1977. Along with McCoy, Roberts Lines, and Forney Trains, CMC/CMT was one of the largest makers of Standard Gauge trains during the 1970's and 80's. Production ceased in the late 1990’s.

Now “Classic Model Trains” is back, making authentic, all-metal tinplate Standard Gauge trains.

For 2017 we present a full line of freight cars. Some designs have been continued from the earlier line-up, some have been improved, and we have added a few brand-new designs, including a drop-center flat car never before available in Standard Gauge! We have also developed a Livestock car which CMT never previously made, and greatly improved the Tank and Refrigerator car designs. Passenger cars are in production for release in 2018, and both steam- and electric-outline locomotives are being planned as well.

Look for the colorful array of freight cars available now. Constructed of 24-gauge and heavier steel, brass, and aluminum, using traditional tab-and-slot, hand-soldered, and welded joints. All manufactured in the United States of America. And all our trains run on traditional Standard Gauge 42"-diameter curves.

Now you can once again own and run brand-new American-made Standard Gauge tinplate trains – and at these special introductory prices, far less than the price of trains made in China.