pre war vs. post war

[Anonymous]

I am new to the Lionel Train world.  I recently have come into possession of some old Lionel Trains and many accessories such as a log loader, milk car platform, stockyard, coal elevator etc.  How can I tell if items are pre war or post war?  Is there a helpful web site to visit to get some general information before I go to a local dealer?  Any help or "pointing in the right direction" would be greatly appreciated.

[Anonymous]

You might try a model forum, perhaps 'Classic Toy Trains'.  This is the full sized forum; although some of us had Lionel Trains in our youth, you might get more 'current' info on the CTT forum.

Art