The story of the toy train glory years from 1945-1966. Lionel, American Flyer Marx – names riveted in the memories of anyone who grew up in the late 40s or 50s. Toy trains topped every kid’s wish list. Smoke-puffing steamers, red and silver Santa Fe diesels, and the little man throwing milk cans out of a white refrigerator car. Toy train stories from all over the country.