WILESCO toys | model steam engines, vintage steam toys, boats & steam kits for sale

Wilesco live model steam engines

In 1912 the company Wilhelm Schroeder and partner was founded by Wilhelm Schroeder and Ernst Wortmann. The name Wilesco results of the initials of the founder members. The efficient company started its production of model steam engines in the middle of the last century, which are the big sellers until today. The strong connection between steam engines and economical rise could be a reason for this.

Wilesco steam toys

While Wilesco dates back to 1912, their early business was kitchen utensils. They didn't begin producing their own live model steam engines until around 1950. Prior to this, they produced steam engine parts under subcontract to Fleischmann in the 1930's. While live model steam engines were still being made in quantity in the 1960’s, the elaborate artwork had given way to austerity, in deference to the declining market. By the 1970's, Marklin and Fleischmann had dropped out, leaving only Jensen, Mamod and Wilesco as major makers of live steam toy models.

Nowadays, Wilesco steam toys are collectible items, especially the steam roller, ferris wheel and 'atom' steam engine. High prices are paid for old engines which are in good shape.

Some stationary Wilesco models are: