Tea Caddy - American - Inlaid - Sheridan Loyd Antiques

This extraordinary locomotive model is of the DeWitt Clinton. It consist of an engine, three coach cars, tinder car, and track. This is an exact miniature replica of the actual train. Hand made, basic construction is of of wood, metal and finely detailed paint decoration. e.g. Locomotive––body: burner, wheels––may be made of iron or lead; tinder and carriages are made of painted wood and metal. According to the collector from whom the model was purchased, it may have been made closer to the time period of the actual train––1831-1833. I feel that it is dates closer to the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago where this small scale version may have been on display, or possibly for sale, in the Transportation Exibit since a full scale replica of the train was a primary focus of that exhibit. An amazing 19th C. modle and exceptional collector piece! Measuring 36"L by 6"W at the base. The height from the bottom of the base to the top of the smoke stack is just over 8". The track width is greater than your typical "O" gauge. Photos can't convey its extraordinary detail and surface. See history below.

The DeWitt Clinton of the "Mohawk & Hudson" Railroad (M&H) was the first steam locomotive to operate in the state of New York and the fourth built in the United States. It began operations in 1831. It was named in honour of DeWitt Clinton, the governor of New York State responsible for the Erie Canal, who died in 1828. The DeWitt Clinton's first run was from the city of Albany, New York to Schenectady, New York, a run of 16 miles. Its passenger cars were yellow stagecoaches in which the riders would sit either inside or on outdoor rumble seats. It was scrapped in 1833. The New York Central Railroad, predecessor to the M&H, built a scale and operational reproduction of the DeWitt Clinton, complete with three carriages, for the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This replica continued to work as an engaging promotional device for the railroad in many subsequent locations until purchased by Henry Ford in 1934 with the condition that it still travel periodically to fairs and expositions on behalf of the NYCR. It is kept on display at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan.