Varney Scale Models

Lore & Background

Gordon Varney founded the company in 1936 and played a crucial part in bringing model railroading to the smaller HO scale, offering those with less space an opportunity to enjoy the hobby. The Varney V-1 motor was small enough to fit in an HO scale locomotive yet powerful enough to pull a long train, running on 6 volts direct current. Varney first offered the 4-6-2 Pacific and the 2-8-0 Consolidation in the late 1930s and early 1940s, followed by the 2-8-2 Mikado and other models. The Pacific had the USRA boiler style and was patterned after the Southern Pacific prototype, while the Consolidation was designed after the Reading 2-8-0.

One of the most popular HO scale models of all time was the Varney model of the B&O Railroad C-16 0-4-0T Switcher, nicknamed Li'l Joe, which reportedly sold more than 50,000 copies. For many years, Varney advertisements occupied the back cover of Model Railroader magazine, often using photographs taken by John Allen. Varney also produced miniature Ford vehicles and other accessories, including a 1 1/4" model of the 1953 Ford Customline Fordor Sedan with moveable wheels, created in 1954 using an AMT Corporation master. Other vehicles included a 1949 Ford F-1 pickup truck, panel truck, stake truck, and a 1953 Studebaker Starliner, originally offered in gray, red, and black, and later molded in clear styrene.

Reader's Guide

Varney Scale Models holds significance as an early pioneer in HO scale model railroading, with Gordon Varney's development of the V-1 motor enabling the production of practical, powerful HO locomotives. The company's models were above average in quality and detail, and many remain popular with collectors and enthusiasts. Varney's relocation to Miami, Florida in 1955 and subsequent sale to Sol Kramer in 1960 led to the eventual rebranding as Life-Like Trains in 1970. Some of Varney's steam locomotive designs were acquired by Penn Line Manufacturing, later acquired by Bowser Manufacturing. Gordon Varney was named a 'Pioneer of Model Railroading' by the Model Railroad Industry Association in 1985. The legacy of Varney Scale Models endures through its influential role in establishing HO scale as a mainstream gauge and through the continued collectibility of its locomotives and accessories.

Did You Know?

• Varney's V-1 motor ran on 6 volts direct current.
• The B&O C-16 0-4-0T Switcher, nicknamed Li'l Joe, sold over 50,000 copies.
• Varney advertisements appeared on the back cover of Model Railroader magazine for many years.
• In 1956, Varney offered its Ford and Studebaker vehicle models molded in clear styrene.