Copyright 2002 T. Sheil & A. Sheil  All Rights Reserved

All Gauge Model Railroading Page


Tin-Lithographed Buildings

Colorful and Attractive Models of Stations and Homes


The art of tin-lithography made it possible to produce bright, colorful detail at a low price.  Rather that make the details as individual parts, they were included in the lithographed images.  This was realism that anyone could afford.  

Tin-lithographed buildings were a definite advancement of the time.  They were markedly superior in appearance to stamped-metal buildings painted in single color.  Tin-lithography allowed models of brick, stone, granite and wood paneling to be made.  Even better, buildings could incorporate several textures, adding to their realism.

Details counted, too.  Tin Lithography provided windows, doors, clocks and other essentials.  Yes, they could even emplace people to occupy the buildings.  So skilled were the artists who drew the designs that we can successfully date any building's origin by any of several factors: outside decor, letting on signs, details, and the hairstyles and clothing of people.  All were painted on by the lithographic process.


Click here to see Union Stations

Click here to see Glendale Passenger Station

Click here to see Wolverine Dollhouse

Click here to see Freight Station

Click here to see Oak Park Passenger Station

Click here to see the U.S. Army Headquarters

Click here to see the U.S. Armed Forces Training Center barracks

Click here for Crossing Gate Shanty

Click here for Tin-Litho Tunnels

Click here for the Mystery Schoolhouse

NEW - Click here for U.S. Cavalry H.Q.

Click here to see Tin People


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