2-Rail O-Scale Chicago and Northwestern 4-8-4 -- ATA Models

ATA Models was the trade name for A. Thomas Alsgard of Chicago, Illinois. Tom started in the 1930s as a customer builder of O-scale models. He eventually introduced a few standard models, including an 0-6-0, a PRR K4, a USRA heavy Mikado, and the C&NW H1 Northern. These models were available factory built or as kits. The H1 shown in this video was purchased as a kit. Alf Modine purchased this model from the original builder and completely restored and super-detailed it. Alf picked up his interest in the C&NW from his early years on the north shore of Chicago (Kenilworth, I believe). He later lived on the San Francisco peninsula. He was well known for his craftsman models, which on at least one occasion won best in show at the annual Chicago March Meet. It should be noted that ATA models were rather crude in their original form. Alf truly transformed this model -- quite a testament to his skills as a modeler.