2022 & 2023
10/5/22
11/16/22
2/8/23
2/22/23
5/17/23
5/31/23
6/14/23
6/28/23
7/12/23
8/9/23
8/23/23
9/6/23
9/20/23
10/4/23
10/18/23
11/1/23
3/11/26
4/1/26
2024
3/6/24
3/20/24
4/17/24
5/15/24
5/29/24
6/12/24
7/10/24
8/7/24
8/21/24
10/30/24
11/13/24
11/27/24
12/11/24
2025
1/8/25
2/5/25
2/19/25
2/26/25 N
3/5/25
3/12/25 N
3/19/25
3/26/25
4/9/25 N
4/16/25
4/30/25
5/7/25 N
5/14/25
5/21/25 N
5/28/25
2026
3/11/26
4/1/26
4/15/26
10/5/22, COTT zoom meeting
11/16/22, COTT zoom meeting
2/8/23, COTT zoom meeting
2/22/23, COTT zoom meeting
5/17/23, COTT zoom meeting
5/31/23, COTT zoom meeting
6/14/23, COTT zoom meeting
6/28/23, COTT zoom meeting
7/12/23, COTT zoom meeting
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/f9hyao7setu9oqtd9efah/h?rlkey=sh3ofegcgelk35t7uk8nxnrb8&st=dmdjcqwp&dl=0
8/9/23, COTT zoom meeting
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/k82ie5ff8xv4njifljg77/h?rlkey=pso7nn7o6hist275r3jtlg32c&st=zm4lwsp7&dl=0
8/23/23, COTT zoom meeting
9/6/23, COTT zoom meeting
9/20/23, COTT zoom meeting
10/4/23, COTT zoom meeting
10/18/23, COTT zoom meeting
11/1/23, COTT zoom meeting
3/6/24, COTT zoom meeting
3/20/24, COTT zoom meeting
4/17/24, COTT zoom meeting
5/15/24, COTT zoom meeting
5/29/24, COTT zoom meeting
6/12/24, COTT zoom meeting
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/a4sxxmv5kkjv2yepk9e2q/AB_yQktmceG0Sm2SWbo8Shw?rlkey=o7htmx7qs8tl5m6wmzoy7ohur&st=8xvmnxzg&dl=0
7/10/24, COTT zoom meeting
8/7/24, COTT zoom meeting
8/21/24, COTT zoom meeting
10/30/24, COTT zoom meeting
11/13/24, COTT zoom meeting
11/27/24, COTT zoom meeting
12/11/24, COTT zoom meeting
1/8/25, COTT zoom meeting
2/5/25, COTT zoom meeting
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/xih1quwhhcpybi8j5anwi/ALE0m2u0u96JO6Q4_dDEzLY?rlkey=z1q0a3mhd73mef3u22nauu3ju&st=rzgur4pi&dl=0
2/19/25, COTT zoom meeting
2/26/25, COTT zoom meeting, non train related
3/5/25, COTT zoom meeting
3/12/25, COTT zoom meeting, non train related
3/19/25, COTT zoom meeting
3/26/25, COTT zoom meeting
4/9/25, COTT zoom meeting, non train related
4/16/25, COTT zoom meeting
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/8c636rcw9bgoyj4dwtoyc/ANEeyZ8b46BoXgJw8WBqvOU?rlkey=0x0qrlps6p6xpfy2a3liuqzlv&st=r4re3icc&dl=0
4/30/25, COTT zoom meeting
5/7/25, COTT zoom meeting, non train related
5/14/25, COTT zoom meeting
5/21/25, COTT zoom meeting, non train related
5/28/25, COTT zoom meeting
3/11/26, COTT zoom meeting, and below is the summery of the meeting by AI
Meeting summary
Quick recap
The meeting focused on a detailed discussion of Chemcraft science sets, their evolution, and production history. Craig presented a comprehensive overview of the sets, highlighting changes in design, materials, and components from 1956 to 1961, when Lionel acquired the brand. He explained the manufacturing process, including the rounding of metal edges and the use of spot welding, and noted the gradual shift from metal to cardboard components. The group also discussed Lionel’s acquisition of Chemcraft and the challenges the company faced in marketing science sets alongside trains. Sterling inquired about storage solutions for the metal sets, while Bob asked about the production location of Lionel HO stock cars. The conversation concluded with reflections on Lionel’s business strategies and the decline of interest in model trains among baby boomers.
Next steps
Next steps were not generated due to insufficient transcript.
Summary
NASCAR Rights and Chemistry Set
The meeting began with a brief discussion about the unusual lack of snow and dry conditions, with Sterling expressing hope for avoiding fires. Craig then praised Lionel for securing die-cast rights to NASCAR, noting it as a smart business move. The conversation shifted to a discussion about a hard-to-find chemistry set from the 1960s, which was missing several crucial components, making it difficult to piece together. Craig expressed frustration about the rarity and incomplete nature of the set, hoping Bill would join to further discuss the topic.
Chem Craft Cabinet Evolution History
Craig presented a detailed history and analysis of Chem Craft science cabinets, focusing on their evolution from wood to metal cabinets in 1956. He showed examples from 1956-1961, explaining how the manufacturing process changed over time, particularly regarding edge treatment and graphics application. The discussion revealed that the metal frames were spot-welded and rounded after assembly, with the graphics applied last to avoid damaging the paint. Craig also noted that the number of chemical bottles remained consistent throughout the period, while the colors of test tube holders and other components changed annually.
Chemistry Set Manufacturing Evolution
Craig explained the evolution of metal and wood chemistry set cabinets, noting that metal sets were introduced in 1960 and renumbered afterward, with some variations possibly sold through Sears. He clarified that most chemistry sets included alcohol burners, except for the smallest sets, and mentioned that the Porter factory, located in Hagerstown, was a single-story facility with limited production capabilities compared to Lionel’s taller factory. Craig also discussed how Lionel sold chemicals separately in test tubes, similar to Gilbert’s approach, and mentioned finding a rare piece of equipment while researching for the meeting.
Science Set Cabinet Sales Challenges
Craig discussed a science set cabinet that was sold to retailers but did not perform well, costing $4.79 for the basic model without chemicals or glassware. He noted that the set included plastic items, a balance, and a mixer, but the high price and poor quality led to low sales. Sterling suggested keeping such items behind a locked counter due to theft concerns, and Craig mentioned previous attempts to prevent pilferage had failed. Craig was unable to locate the paperwork he initially found and apologised for the interruption, promising to find it and show it to the others.
Lionel Train Collectibles Discussion
The group discussed various topics related to Lionel trains and other collectibles. Craig shared his experiences with collecting Lionel science sets and his thoughts on why Lionel’s train production declined. They discussed the history of Chemcraft and Lionel’s involvement with it. Sterling mentioned his interest in Lionel HO stock cars and his childhood experiences with Lionel trains. The group also touched on the military work done by companies like Lionel and the challenges of working on military projects. They agreed to meet again on Sunday for further discussions.
4/1/26, COTT zoom meeting, and below is the summery of the meeting by AI
Meeting summary
Quick recap
The meeting focused on discussing various aspects of Lionel train collections, including pre-war and post-war locomotives, box specifications, and recent eBay finds. Al shared details about his Standard Gauge 500 series cars and received guidance from Russ about proper load configurations. Lyle demonstrated factory box specification forms that he obtained from Pete Campo, showing semi-translucent paper versions with dimensions and artwork details. Russ presented a comprehensive overview of pre-war steam locomotives, specifically covering the 225 and 226 series, including variations in lettering, journal colors, and coupler types. The group discussed recent high-value eBay sales, including a 2347 that sold for an impressive price, and Brian shared plans to film content at a museum featuring rare GG1 locomotives and an FM train. The conversation ended with discussions about upcoming plans for the York gathering and future meeting schedules.
Next steps
- al: Take video at Russ’s house during the York get-together (starting 6pm local time on April 22nd)
- Alan: Provide pictures of the 225 locomotive with the smaller plastic tender using the same format as Russ’s presentation
- Brian: Visit museum to film GG1s, FMs, and other pieces (including close-up photos of the Lackawanna FM and Union Pacific caboose) and share findings
- Craig: Send AI transcription/video in the morning for review
- Lyle: Continue working on updating the website with multiple pictures for the FMs (replacing 2 pictures with 8 pictures)
- Brian/Keith: Collaborate on research about the FM prototype shell (including examining construction materials and whether it’s motorized)
Summary
Technical and Recording Setup Meeting
The meeting began with technical difficulties as Mark practiced sharing his screen on Zoom. Craig and Mark worked through screen sharing issues before the full meeting started. The group discussed the transcription and AI recording features, with Craig noting previous issues with the AI functionality. Russ confirmed that a video could be taken at his York gathering on April 22nd starting at 6 PM, with Al assigned to handle the recording.
Space Missions and Technical Updates
The group discussed the recent Artemis liftoff, sharing personal memories of historical space missions including Apollo moon landings and Alan Shepard’s flight. Craig assigned David and Lyle to present on the paper train, with Lyle to also show box forms afterward. The conversation ended with technical difficulties regarding screen sharing features in the video conferencing platform, with participants discussing the new interface changes and how to navigate them.
Standard Gauge Freight Car Calibration
Al presented various Standard Gauge 500 series freight cars and discussed calibration details, including the counting method for springs and tilt variations. He sought clarification on the appropriate load configuration for different cars, with Russ confirming that individual planks were likely used in later, lighter cars, while solid loads might have been used in earlier or specific models. The group also discussed the variation in brake wheel placement on some cars, with Alan and Russ agreeing that manufacturing processes could explain the reversed placement.
Train Collectibles and Models Discussion
The group discussed train collectibles, focusing on box car variations and dating. Russ and Don clarified that certain boxes were likely from the mid to late 1930s rather than 1930, and Alan agreed to double-check his records for any typos. The conversation then shifted to a demonstration of paper train models on a website, where Lyle guided the group through various wartime and post-war paper train options, including new photos contributed by Dave Osborn. The discussion concluded with appreciation for the detailed craftsmanship of the paper train models, including their wooden wheels and cardboard couplers.
Lionel Train Box Specifications
The group discussed factory box specification forms for Lionel trains, with Lyle sharing five original semi-translucent paper forms he obtained from Pete Campo. The forms appear to be templates for post-war picture boxes with dimensions to be filled in later for specific car models, though the actual dimensions are not provided on the forms. The group noted these would be valuable references for reproduction box makers, and the forms are sized at 8.5×11 inches. The discussion concluded with Craig mentioning a follow-up topic about pre-war tender shells with Mark Rose.
Pre-War to Post-War Tender Designs
Mark presented findings on the connection between pre-war and post-war tender designs, specifically examining a 226T casting and its relationship to the 2426W tender. He discovered that while the post-war tender used 440 screws for steps, the pre-war version likely used number 3 screws, and many other design elements were carried over from the 226 pre-war model. The discussion concluded with plans to transition to covering pre-war steam locomotives, with Russ and Alan preparing to present on this topic.
Lionel Die-Cast Locomotive Discussion
Russ led a discussion on Lionel die-cast locomotives, focusing on the 225s and 226s models. He explained various variations, including differences in tenders, couplers, and lettering sizes. Russ noted that the 225s and 226E pre-war engines were considered some of the smoothest and best-made by Lionel. The group discussed specific features like whistle tenders, plastic versus die-cast components, and the use of different colored lettering. Alan bondjoukdjian mentioned his wife’s 225 with a plastic tender, and Russ suggested taking pictures using the same format as the presentation. The discussion concluded with a brief mention of the 1662 and 1663 models as predecessors to the 1615s series.
Lionel Train Engine Discussion
The group discussed Lionel train engines, specifically the 1662 and 1663 models. Russ explained the differences between these engines, including the 1663’s “magic electrole” system for independent control. The discussion then moved to train boxes, with Russ noting an unusual case where two different box types had the same flap number. Alan mentioned finding a difference in a 6057 caboose box and body mold variations. The conversation concluded with a question about what goes in a specific train box, which Marty answered was a baggage car.
Train Model Parts and Sales
The team discussed part numbers for boxes, confirming that despite different designs, the same part number could be used since the boxes were the same size and function. Craig announced he was nearly finished with tenders and steam engines, planning to update pictures and move on to 64s models. The group shared recent eBay finds, including a rare caboose that sold for $10,600 and a CS set box that fetched $7,600, with discussion about disqualified bids on some items. The conversation ended with a historical anecdote about pre-war trains being sold at high values in the late 1990s.
Lionel Trains Discussion Meeting
The group discussed the origins of Lionel trains, particularly focusing on a military set box labeled as shipped from Madison Hardware. Brian shared his recent video with his daughter and discussed the challenges of creating content, including multiple takes required for filming. The conversation concluded with Brian showing pictures of a rare black GG1 locomotive and discussing plans to visit Pennsylvania to see other rare trains in the Shimp collection.
New York Train Collection Trip
The group discussed plans for an upcoming trip to New York, where several members including Brian, Marty, Russ, and others will attend an event. Brian shared details about his planned visit to Ed Hachikian’s collection, where he will focus on photographing specific items including GG1s, FMs, and a Southern Pacific FM numbered 4812. The discussion included technical details about these train models, particularly questions about the construction of prototype models and their materials. The conversation ended with plans for another meeting before the New York trip and well-wishes for the upcoming holiday.
4/15/26, COTT zoom meeting, and below is the summery of the meeting by AI
Meeting summary
Quick recap
The meeting focused on updates and discussions about Lionel train collections, with particular emphasis on post-war train sets and boxcar variations. Jerry presented the latest edition of the “Everyone Loves Boxcars” reference guide, Volume 3, which includes 525 variations and features spiral binding for easier use. Sterling discussed a rare 1950-53 set with unique box manufacturing by Denson Banner Company and the evolution of the 1464W set through different years. Craig shared progress on documenting coal unloader variations and set components, highlighting the extensive work being done to catalog different versions and box types. The group also discussed the website’s expansion to include information on 00-scale trains and various Lionel product lines, with participants noting the site’s growing comprehensive nature.
Next steps
- Brian: Create a video review of the new “Everyone Loves Boxcars” Volume 3 book, highlighting the differences from previous volumes, the table of contents, chapters, added sections (fakes, original boxes), inventory checklist column, and cross-referencing with COTT website photos; include ordering information and mention the cross-reference/links feature on the COTT site.
- Alan: Locate and photograph the 622-style brush plate version of the coal ramp (and/or other requested variations) and send photos to Craig for inclusion on the website.
- Craig & Lyle: Add a link or reference on the coal ramp page to direct users to the hopper car variations page for further information, as discussed.
- Sterling: Send Craig the picture of the Denson Banner Company set box for documentation and potential inclusion on the website.
- Marty: Check personal Stormbecker set collection and provide Al with information about set numbers or details found, to assist with Stormbecker research.
- Craig: Add a link or information about the Skeltrex factory video (and/or lines factory video) to the website for next Monday or as soon as possible.
- Craig: Record the upcoming meeting at Russ’s house and, if possible, use a gimbal for improved video quality.
Summary
Chicago Weather and Website Issues
The group discussed recent weather events in the Chicago area, including tornadoes and unusual lack of insects. Craig shared details about a website hack that affected their online presence, explaining how GoDaddy helped resolve the malware issue after he apologized for causing problems. The conversation then shifted to personal anecdotes about outhouses, with participants sharing stories from rural areas and family properties.
Upcoming Events and Website Updates
The group discussed upcoming events, including the York show on the 23rd and 24th, where Alan and his father will be attending and Alan will bring a tablet to share information. Craig announced that he had created a new Zoom Meeting archives page on the website, which will contain links to all future meetings and is being developed to include older recordings as well. The participants also discussed positive feedback about their crowd-sourced website, which provides free information about train sets and has been well-received at various shows including Allentown, Edison, and York.
Boxcars Reference Guide Volume 3 Updates
Gerry presented updates on the “Everyone Loves Boxcars” reference guide series, highlighting the development of Volume 3. He explained that Volume 3 includes 525 variations with over 1,200 documented possibilities, featuring 80% more pages than Volume 2. The new volume includes sections on original boxes and fakes, with a spiral binding option that allows the book to lay flat. Gerry also noted that Volume 3 maintains the same numbering system as Volume 2, with new variations marked with asterisks to indicate changes.
Train Variations Book Discussion
Gerry discussed the availability of a book on 6464 train variations, priced at $40 at the York event or $45 by mail. He noted that a limited number of blue books with spiral binding were printed and recommended early ordering for those interested in this version. Craig and Lyle were thanked for adding variation numbers to photos on the COTT website, with Lyle creating a comprehensive table linking KW numbers to corresponding photos. When asked about convention cars, Gerry clarified that the book only covers production versions and not prototypes or convention cars, though there was interest expressed in potentially cataloging convention cars in a future volume.
Lionel Train Book Discussion
The group discussed a new Lionel train book focusing on post-war variations, with Gerry explaining that it was printed at Weatherford Press in Oklahoma. When asked about future publications, Gerry confirmed there are no current plans for additional books, though some have suggested covering production samples or prototypes. Brian mentioned he was creating a video review of the book and received guidance from Gerry on what to highlight, including the new organizational structure, table of contents, and cross-referencing system with the cornucopia book.
1952 Lionel Train Set Box
Sterling presented information about a Lionel train set box from 1952, specifically set number 1464W, manufactured by Denson Banner Company. He noted that this set maintained the same number across multiple years despite changes in design, including a shift from dark gray to silver coloring. Sterling also mentioned that the box would have had an OPS stamp due to Korean War compliance requirements, dated July 1952. He sought input from the group about other Denson Banner Company manufactured set boxes, as he could find no information about this manufacturer online.
Lionel Train Set Evolution 1952-1953
The group discussed changes in Lionel train sets from 1952 to 1953, focusing on differences in paint schemes, box designs, and part numbers. Sterling explained that while the train consist remained largely unchanged between these years, the box design was updated in 1953 to include an orange border and distinctive circle L branding. Craig presented detailed information about coal car variations, including changes in rivet placement, tray colors, and motor cover designs, with particular attention to different plastic colors used underneath the paint. Lyle and Alan contributed additional details about specific components and variations they had observed in their collections.
Coal Ramp Instruction Sheets Presentation
Craig presented detailed information about the 397 operating coal ramp, including variations in box designs and instruction sheets from 1950 to 1955. He explained the differences between early and later versions, including changes in color schemes, materials used, and packaging. Craig requested that participants review their collections for any additional instruction sheets not yet documented and offered to continue working on the project, expecting more sets to be contributed by others. The group discussed the organization of sets on shelves, with Craig seeking feedback on the current arrangement before proceeding further.
Model Train Inspection Discussion
The group discussed the location of inspection slips in Lionel boxes, with Craig explaining they were typically found at the bottom of boxes or trays. Sterling inquired about the size of service station samples, and Don confirmed that early nine and a quarter inch boxcars used various frames, including the 6465 stamp tanker frame. The conversation ended with plans to meet at Russ’s house next Wednesday at 5 PM (Craig’s time), and Craig mentioned he would record the next meeting using a gimbal for better video quality.
Toy Trains and Collectibles Discussion
The group discussed various topics related to toy trains and collectibles. Craig mentioned plans to share a link and video about European factories and slot cars. Gerry shared information about an eBay listing for a Lionel 2350 with an orange N, noting discrepancies in colors compared to collector’s guides. Don brought up a rare Kin plate girls train listing on eBay. The group also discussed upcoming auction options, including some American Flyer and post-war items. Brian reported that the auction scene has been relatively quiet, with no major finds, but mentioned an upcoming event in York. Lyle shared information about O-gauge track sold with original wire, which Craig explained was called furnace wire. The group also discussed a recent malware issue on the website, which has since been resolved by GoDaddy.
Model Train Website Review
The group discussed a website containing information about model trains, with Craig demonstrating its features and navigation. They examined various content including 2-rail and 3-rail models, 00 scale items, and display boxes. The website was noted to have approximately 450 pages with extensive content, including factory layouts and detailed photographs. The discussion concluded with mentions of an upcoming auction and a reference to Joe Borio, who was known for his collection of 00 scale models.
Train Collections and Displays Discussion
The group discussed various train collections and displays, with Russ showing off five double-host train sets from the 1930s to early 1940s. Craig shared a story about a video segment he appeared in for “I Love Toy Trains,” where all the trains were running backwards, which went unnoticed by viewers. The conversation also touched on a non-operating Norfolk and Weston train model owned by Andy, and Lyle mentioned that many train catalogs have been scanned and are available on their website.
Train Collection and Donations Discussion
Craig discussed his extensive collection of science sets and his efforts to donate them to museums, noting that the Smithsonian had fewer sets than his collection. Alan inquired about information on Stormbecker trains, and Timothy suggested checking the Ben’s Road website for details. Andy shared his experience with U-gears wooden trains, which are no longer available due to the war in Ukraine. The group also discussed various train sets and collections, with Marty mentioning plans to attend an upcoming event in New York.