Description
This model is believed to have been either the winner or one of the finalists for the 1932 Popular Mechanics contest held in 1932. This train set was probably constructed between 1931-1932. Retains original paint. The color that the train has taken over the years is terrific. The model stands firm on a track built inside a glass showcase (probably original to the train). Hand-Painted. Painted 'Dewitt Clinton'. The case stretches roughly 30" across.
In 1932 Popular Mechanics Magazine held a contest. Contestants were to construct a scale model of the DeWitt Clinton steam engine, its tender and three passenger coaches. The scale of the model was to be one half inch to one foot. The engine would fit in the palm of a hand. The prize was $1000 and a week in New York City via New York Central Railroad's Twentieth Century Limited.
The rivets, nuts, threaded bolts, valves, pumps, pistons and all the works of the engine are faithfully produced in exacting detail, precisely to scale. The level of detail of the coaches is also remarkable.
The actual DeWitt Clinton engine was constructed at West Point New York in 1831. It was the first train to run in New York state, and only the third in the nation. A surviving engine stands at the Henry Ford Museum in Detriot.
The engine is named for DeWitt Clinton (1769-1828) who served in the New York State Legislature, in the U.S. Senate, as Mayor of New York City and as Governor of New York State. He lost the race for President of the United States to James Madison in 1812. He has been referred to as the "Father of the Erie Canal" which he had advocated.
A true museum piece, as it has been featured in such museums as the Smithsonian. In fact, this train was used a model for the popular modern Dewitt Train Model sold at the Smithsonian still today.
Note: Featured in the 1932 Popular Mechanics contest. Possibly finalist or winner.
Size: The case measures roughly 30" across
