Lindley Bothwell, a Californian who made a fortune growing oranges, is best remembered for his collection of vintage cars, many of which are included as the leading lots in the November 11 sale.
However, the assortment of trains and railwayana, including toy and model Standard ‘S’ and ‘O’ gauge locomotives, carriages and trackside buildings, will all be offered without reserve. Lionel Lines, American Flyer, Ives and Voltramp all feature, offering a tempting selection for model railway enthusiasts.
The sale takes place on Bothwell Ranch in Los Angeles.
One highlight is the rare Voltamp 2100 Standard gauge 4-4-0 ‘steam’ locomotive, which is estimated at $7000-9000. Voltamp was an early American toy trains manufacturer. It released the first electric toy train that operated on ordinary household alternating current.
Toby Wilson, head of Bonhams’ automobilia department says the collection was amassed over the course of many years.
