Most Christmas decor makes sense. Dangling reindeer ornaments, Santa-themed cookie jars, and twinkling holiday lights all seem like natural festive touches. But one holiday tradition that doesn't quite fit in with the rest is the toy train circling underneath the tree. Sure, it has a vintage charm to it that reminds us of simpler times, but where did the idea start? And why do we continue to put them there?
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According to USA Today, the origins of placing electric trains under Christmas trees can be traced back to the early 1900s. It was an era when the railroad reigned as the supreme method of transportation—especially when it came to holiday travel.
"Railroads were part of the American consciousness at the time," Hal Miller, editor of Classic Toy Trains, told the publication. "If you wanted to travel long distances, if you wanted to go anywhere, you did it by train."
Beyond the practical association with trains, there was also a strong sentimental connection. As families gathered around their Christmas trees, many of them likely received gifts that had been transported by train. The holiday season was also the busiest time for railroads, as they carried goods and people across the country to be with loved ones.
Seeing as how trains equaled presents brought to you by your grandparents or favorite uncle, it's no wonder that kids were naturally drawn to them. But who was the first to capitalize on this fascination?
Lionel: The Original Christmas Train
Credit: Getty
In 1900, Joshua Lionel Cowen founded the Lionel Corporation and began producing toy trains. He wasn't the first person to do it, but his experience as both an engineer and a talented salesman gave him the upper hand. Originally, he designed his first electric trains for toy stores to use in their displays. But it wasn't long before families wanted to take that magic home with them.
He sold his first train—titled the Electric Express—for a whopping $4 to a novelty store in downtown Manhattan. Upon realizing that most of his trains were being sold as toys rather than being used as marketing devices, he began expanding his model to include longer railroads and accessories like suspension bridges, bumps, and switches.
Up until this point, toy trains were mostly made of either wood or metal, and the primary power source was either pushing the train by hand or pulling it with a tether. The fact that Lionel's trains came with built-in engines helped propel them—pun intended—to the top of every child's wish list.
Even though other manufacturers soon caught on to the trend, Lionel never lost its foothold as the king of model trains. The Lionel Corporation reached its peak in the 1950s as the largest toymaker in the world.
Are People Still Buying Trains?
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While toys have obviously evolved a lot since the early 1900s, trains are still a popular gift for kids and collectors alike. In addition to the nostalgic appeal, movies like The Polar Express and even the Harry Potter franchise have kept locomotives in the spotlight.
There are no national sales figures for this type of toy, but Miller told USA Today that he estimates they bring in around $300 million to $500 million every year. While they may not be the primary mode of transportation anymore, they continue to hold a special place in our hearts and under our Christmas trees.
"They've never gone out of style," he said. "You still have tons of people across the country and in Canada who have a train set, and they're going to set it up around the tree. They're still very popular."
Where to Buy Christmas Trains
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With the rise of technology, trains have become even more advanced with features like remote control operation, sound effects, and intricate scenery. If you're looking to start or continue this tradition in your own home, many department stores carry them during the holiday season, as well as specialty toy stores and hobby shops. You can also find a wide selection online, from vintage Lionel trains to modern ones with Bluetooth capabilities.
Here are a few of our favorites:
The Hot Bee Train Set
Amazon
This classic locomotive comes with odorless smoke, working headlights, and realistic sounds.
The Lionel Polar Express Train Set
Amazon
Inspired by the popular movie, this set features authentic details and a remote control.
OLIUGEI Electric Steam Train
Amazon
With a vintage design and the ability to move it forward and backward, this train is perfect for under any tree.
Whether it's nostalgia, sentimentality, or simply the magic of trains at Christmastime, there's something truly special about seeing a miniature locomotive chugging around a tree. It's been a beloved holiday tradition for over 100 years—and shows no signs of slowing down.
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Country are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
