Athearn Trains has been a significant presence in the model railroading hobby for over 75 years, offering a wide range of HO and N scale model trains. The company’s history is marked by continuous innovation in drive technology, detailing, and product lines, catering to both novice and experienced modelers. Athearn’s offerings include locomotives, freight cars, rolling stock, and vehicles, with many models available in Direct Current (DC) and Digital Command Control (DCC) configurations, often with sound capabilities provided through a relationship with SoundTraxx. The company has undergone changes in ownership and branding, including the establishment of Athearn Roundhouse, but has consistently focused on delivering quality and value to the model railroading community.
Early Years and Founding
The origins of Athearn Trains can be traced back to the post-World War II era, a period of suburban growth and increased interest in the hobby of model railroading. In 1947, Irv Athearn established Athearn Trains in Miniature after receiving a positive response to an advertisement regarding his O scale model railroad. Initially, the business focused on selling model railroad supplies. Simultaneously, Roundhouse Products, established earlier by Jerry Joice and Perry Bodkin, began producing HO scale model trains, including a 0-6-0 steam locomotive kit made of brass and lead alloy. Roundhouse Products was later managed by C.H. Menteer and C.A. Voelckel, who also built models for Cecil B. DeMille’s film Union Pacific. World War II temporarily halted Roundhouse Products’ operations in February of an unspecified year.
Technological Advancements in Locomotive Drives
Athearn’s development has been closely tied to advancements in locomotive drive technology. Early innovations included the introduction of the Hi-F Drive, utilized in models like the RDC-1 and RDC-3, and the introduction of RP-25 wheels for freight cars. The company later introduced a gear-drive version of the 4-6-2 locomotive, followed by gear-driven 0-4-2T and 0-6-0 models. A significant development was the introduction of the “ring-magnet” motor for diesel locomotives. The introduction of the flywheel drive, first appearing in the F45 and FP45 models, was a further step forward, subsequently being added to most other Athearn locomotives with exceptions like the RDCs, Hustler, and DD40. The F7 models were available with or without flywheels, and the S12 and SD9 were also introduced with the flywheel drive. Later improvements included a new drive system featuring narrower motors and new handrail stanchions, alongside the introduction of plastic EMD Blomberg Truck Sideframes for models like the F7, GP9, and GP35.
Expansion of Product Lines
Throughout its history, Athearn has consistently expanded its product lines to encompass a wider range of locomotives and rolling stock. Early models included the 4-6-2 steam locomotive, 50' Double Door Box Car, Quad Hopper, and Pickle Cars. Subsequent introductions included the GP30, GP35, SD45, SDP40, DD40, SW1500 Cow & Calf, Alco PA1/PB1, U28B, U28C, U30B, U30C, U33B, and U33C. The company also introduced the GP38-2, GP50, GP40-2, SW1000, and SW1500. Model Die Casting, a related entity, contributed to the product range with the Shay steam locomotive kit and the Alco RS3 diesel locomotive kit. Athearn also introduced the Impack Articulated TOFC Spine Car, 50' Modern Double-Door Box Car, MAXI-III and Husky-Stack Well Cars, GP60, GP50 Phase II, and C44-9W. The DD40 was re-released with flywheels, and the non-flywheel version of the F7 was discontinued, with subsequent F7 models differentiated only by weight. The AC4400CW was also added to the lineup.
Athearn Roundhouse and McHenry Couplers
Athearn Roundhouse emerged as a distinct brand within the Athearn family, offering hobby-grade models designed for customization and upgrades. Athearn Roundhouse models feature accurate paint schemes, molded-on detail for durability, and DC locomotives equipped with a 21-pin board for easy DCC decoder installation. McHenry Couplers, a separate entity, began offering N scale couplers, complementing Athearn’s HO scale offerings. Athearn HO scale freight cars are characterized by separately applied roof walks (where applicable), metal wheelsets, and body-mounted McHenry scale knuckle couplers.
Recent Developments and Licensing
More recent developments include the release of the Genesis SD70ACe, based on former Tower 55 tooling, and the securing of a licensing agreement with UPS. New tooling announcements have included the Genesis FP7, GP15-1, Veranda Turbine, GATC 2600 Airslide Covered Hopper, RTC 20,900 Gallon Acid Tank Car, 33,900 Gallon LPG Tank Car (Early & Late Versions), 40' Wood Chip Hopper, HO Yard Tractor, Grain Truck, N GATC 2600 Airslide Covered Hopper, ACF 2970 Covered Hopper, 40' Wood Chip Hopper, 33,900 Gallon LPG Tank Car (Early & Late Versions), Bay Window Caboose, Ready To Roll U50, N F59PHi (available with Tsunami Sound), Genesis GP7 & GP9, DDA40X "Centennial", GP15T, Southern Pacific Bay Window Caboose, 50' GATC 20,000 Gallon SHN Type 40 Acid Tank Car, 50' PC&F Boxcar with 8'+6' Landis Doors, and Genesis SD70M-2. Athearn also purchased the F-Unit tooling from Paul Lubliner of Highliners for use in the Genesis line, while Highliners retained the rights to sell the F-Units in undecorated kit form. Model Die Casting relocated to Carson City, Nevada, and Athearn was sold to new owners at an unspecified time.
Scale and Market Focus
Athearn primarily focuses on HO and N scale model trains, catering to modelers who desire detailed and realistic representations of prototypical trains. The company’s models are available with various roadnames, including Amtrak, Norfolk Southern, Santa Fe, and Union Pacific, allowing modelers to recreate authentic railroad scenes. The popularity of HO scale trains grew after World War II, as they allowed hobbyists to incorporate more of a model railroad into a smaller space while offering a greater level of realism compared to earlier O scale trains. Athearn was well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, establishing itself as a leading manufacturer in the HO scale market.
Sound and DCC Integration
Athearn has established a relationship with SoundTraxx to offer locomotives equipped with Tsunami sound, enhancing the realism of the models. Many Athearn locomotives are available in DCC-ready configurations, either with or without sound, allowing modelers to easily integrate them into DCC-controlled layouts. The inclusion of DCC and sound capabilities reflects Athearn’s commitment to providing modern features and enhancing the user experience.
Conclusion
Athearn Trains has maintained a prominent position in the model railroading industry for over 75 years through consistent innovation and a commitment to quality. From early advancements in drive technology to the introduction of detailed models with sound and DCC capabilities, Athearn has adapted to the evolving needs of modelers. The company’s diverse product lines, encompassing locomotives, freight cars, and rolling stock in both HO and N scales, continue to appeal to a wide range of enthusiasts. The establishment of Athearn Roundhouse and the integration of McHenry Couplers further demonstrate the company’s dedication to providing a comprehensive range of products and accessories for the model railroading hobby.