Model train enthusiast will evaluate, buy unwanted rail collections

Several years ago, Cardiff resident Bob Shultz went on the hunt for an old toy train set for his grandson Rollins Fisher. He wanted something fun and not as valuable as the set his father purchased for him in the 1950s. So he placed a classified advertisement in the San Diego Union-tribune to buy old trains people didn’t want, asking them to dig through their closets and garages.

Soon, the retired real estate broker had dozens of offers, which turned into the acquisition of hundreds of trains. He’s now known as “Bob the Train Guy” and spends his time buying, selling and giving away toy trains.

“I rescue trains from people who really do not have a place for them,” Shultz said.

Shultz has what he calls an “extensive collection” of more than 1,000 train items filling his home and garage, including Lionel, MTH Electric Trains (Mike’s Train House), American Flyer and LGB trains. In addition to buying and selling trains, he also donates sets to neighbors and friends and is an active member in the local All Gauge Toy Train Association, which meets monthly and also gives away trains and train sets to local children to help further the hobby.

To learn more about model trains or get an evaluation of a collection, contact Shultz at (760) 579-2234 or email r.shultz760@gmail.com

COURTESY PHOTO Bob Shultz, known as Bob the Train Guy, buys and sells used trains and also gives them away to area kids.