Bachmann Christmas Trains

Founded in 1833 by Henry Carlisle, his Philadelphia-based company originally fashioned horn, ivory, and tortoise shell into Spanish combs for the Southern aristocracy. In 1899, the firm merged with a competing company operated by master carver Henry G. Bachmann and his son, Walter J. Bachmann. Adapting to changing times, in 1912 the company began using a new material, celluloid, to manufacture eyeglass frames.  It continued to specialize in injection molding and was the first American company to manufacture prescription sunglasses. Bachmann used its expertise in injection molded plastic to enter the model train field with Plasticville® U.S.A. These easy-to-use snap-together kits of buildings proved to be an immense hit.

Starting in 1969, Kader, founded in 1948, made the first model trains for Bachmann, and the two companies worked hand in hand to create quality model railroading products for the discerning hobbyist. Kader acquired Bachmann in 1981 and renamed it Bachmann Industries. Kader has grown to become the world's largest manufacturer, by volume, of model railroads.

Bachmann is the only model train company to offer HO, N, On30, O, and G scale lines.  Now in our third century, we continue to adhere to our founder's vision of providing fine craftsmanship at affordable prices while striving to bring our customers the variety of choices and innovation guaranteed by the Bachmann name.