Many thanks for the interest in this thread. Got some interesting leads to other sites where I have posted inquiries. (active thread on RM WEB UK
http://tinyurl.com/mb6m9vv and finscalerr.com
http://www.finescalerr.com/smf/index.php?topic=2284.0 )
@stoker....wonderful photos of the Chicago Fair and thanks for starting the finscalerr thread. The smokestack drawings are a hoot. Your Chicago Fair comments make sense, maybe this thing was used to promote the builder’s products.
@Colin...haven’t found any “model engineering” sites yet...still looking
@Ray D...can’t seem to post to gscalecentral
@ scroggin...Egyptian seems to be the choice so far
Important detail I originally omitted: the rails are 6 inches apart. Is this a common modeling gauge?
I’ve put some more photos at:
http://tinyurl.com/msuen69
Bottom line is that I really haven’t learned much about this wonderful model. Who built it and when? I really find it hard to believe that such a handsome piece of craftsmanship wasn’t marked it someway my its creator!
Whadda ya think my next step should be? Contact a high end auction house?