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Train Collectors Quarterly

Train Collectors Quarterly is a magazine published by Train Collectors Association, or TCA, with four issues sent out annually. If you’re interested in model toy trains such as Marx or Lionel, whether it is present-day modeling or the history of the hobby, the Train Collectors Association is the premier organization covering such and their magazine covers everything from history to what is currently or to be released out on the market. All in all, if you enjoy model toy trains, whatever facet of the hobby it might be, you should certainly like TCA’s magazine.

Train Collectors Quarterly is quite similar to Kalmbach Publishing’s Classic Toy Trains magazine, which deals exclusively with the “classic” modeling manufacturers such as Lionel, Marx, and others. Not only does it deal with collectible models from years past but also gives reviews and advice on current toy trains still being produced. While Classic Toy Trains may be the best selling magazine out there (for the toy train hobby), I don’t think it offers quite the availability of resources that Trains Collectors Quarterly and TCA offer.

Classic Toy Trains magazine is another publication owned by Kalmbach Publishing. It is similar to its sister magazine, Model Railroader, except that it deals exclusively with the “classic” modeling manufacturers such as Lionel, Marx, and others. Not only does it deal with collectible models from years past but also gives reviews and advice on current toy trains still being produced. For those with either an interest in and/or model toy trains the magazine is a great resource.

Aside from the magazine and general association of members, TCA also features a Toy Train Museum (located in Strasburg, Pennsylvania), a website to buy and sell toy trains (the “X-Change”), an online discussion forum, an online magazine called e-Train, and even an online store. To check out all of these different facets of the organization please visit their website by clicking on the link at the top of the page.

All in all, if you have any interest in model toy trains, whether it be their history to collect or even use in layouts, with the resources available I don’t think any other magazine is better than Train Collectors Quarterly and you certainly should not be disappointed with it. If you are interested in purchasing a subscription to the magazine please visit The Railroad Diamond by clicking the tab in the menu to your left marked "TRD Store". This will take you to ordering information (through Amazon.com) where you can also learn more about the magazine (as always, if you need any help or have any questions about the ordering process please feel free to get in touch at any time).

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