TrackMaster Switch Kit from 1949??

[Frank53]

Sorry for my first post being to tap the collective knowledge of the forum, as opposed to "My name is Frank, and I am hooked on Lionel", but I will get to that.

I discovered among a box of extra "stuff" a package containing two shallow rectangular blue boxes called TrackMaster O Gauge Switch Kit from a company in Clifton New Jersey.

Included are a paper template of a switch, a bunch of wood slats of sorts, some metal clips and a bunch of tiny tacks or brads. There are two boxes and each contains a "switch" kit - one left, one right. The templates show a loyout of teh geometry of laying up a swicth and the instructions call for adhering it to your layout and building the switch according to the template.

Deeper in the package, I found an envelope filled with pins addressed to my Dad postmarked 1949. I guess he was a train buff before I came around (53).

In another box, I found a huge supply of black ties. Not sure if they are related to this or not. I am thinking not, as teh switch kit talks about cutting ties to length staring with teh widest.

I am interested in determining if this set has any collector value. It isn't something I would ever distort, and it is very very original - everything, including the whittered instruction sheet is all neatly in the boxes, including the original shipping pakage.

Anyone who knows anything about this and could provide info, I will be appreciative.

[Frank53]

as an aside, I think faster than I type, and my most notable error is "teh".

Sometimes, I just don't have the energy to go back and fix them all. [D)]

[wrmcclellan]

Frank,

Welcome to the CTT forum!

I cannot help you but someone here should be able to with time. Some may suggest you send a mail to the TCA as a posible way to find an expert.

I agree with your decision to preserve it.

If you have a way to get a digital photo - we can explain to you how to post it or several of us who post photos would be willing to post it for you.

Regards,
Roy