3414

INCREDIBLE MACHINIST MODEL OF A LATE 19TH CENTURY BOSTON & MAINE LOCOMOTIVE AND TENDER.

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Toys Start Price:3,250.00 USD Estimated At:6,500.00 - 9,500.00 USD
INCREDIBLE MACHINIST MODEL OF A LATE 19TH CENTURY BOSTON & MAINE LOCOMOTIVE AND TENDER.
A phenomenal model that was 2-1/2 years in the making and completed in 1894! A complete written history accompanies this lot which has been in the same family since the early 1930s. Embossed on the boiler locomotive "Boston & Maine Locomotive No. 414", on the reverse side "William Wight Newport, Vermont 1894". Being a machinist Mr. Wight paid significant attention to the elaborate and highly detailed gears, side rods etc. Viewing the inside of the cab, activation lever, opening boiler, steam gauge and operational side windows further enhance the appeal of this locomotive. Retains its original finish, however Boston & Maine lettering on tender might have been renewed at a later point in time. The piece is approximately 28" in length, which although not large, its presence is still enormous. An original newspaper clipping from the 1930s indicating that the family loaned this to the Currier Gallery of Art in New Hampshire for an extended period of time. The more one studies and observes this model, one can truly appreciate the major undertaking by Mr. Wight and more so, how this was even possible at that period in time. Studying the locomotive closely it appears that the head lamp and front running lights on the cowcatcher must have been dry cell battery operated for visual effect. Further study indicates that possibly at one point Mr. Wight had considered putting in a clockwork motor to actually "run/make operational" the wheel and side rod assembly. This might have been an afterthought that perhaps was never completed? Further observation indicates there were a few holes in the boiler and cab roof, which quite possibly could have had additional visual accompaniments. This is a rare find and in untouched, as found condition and certainly would not only appeal to train buffs, but to collectors of train models as well. SIZE: 28" l. CONDITION: Overall condition in as found, very fine condition. 1-13644