Wilesco 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.
While Wilesco dates back to 1912, their early business was kitchen utensils. They didn't begin producing their own steam engines until around 1950. Prior to this, they produced steam engine parts under subcontract to Fleischmann in the 1930's. While 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 steam models.
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