We often get the question – what is the term “railroadiana?” Through our research, the term railroadiana started appearing after World War II in industry trade publications such as Trains Magazine when individuals started collecting items with railroad markings – including items like lanterns, padlocks/keys and china/silver which “walked off” railroad property for use in personal homes and businesses. Simply put, railroadiana is railroad artifacts, many now considered antiques, used by the railroads. Many collectors focus on one or two “sectors” of the hobby, while others collect every railroad-marked item they see in sight. At RCAI, our association doesn’t focus on one sector – we focus on all railroadiana to help educate our members and general public on the diverse and colorful items which capture the imagination of anyone who enjoys trains and railroading.