Milwaukee, Wis. - As part of its 75th Anniversary celebration, Walthers is pleased to introduce the first in a series of new Cornerstone Series® kits based on Milwaukee-area structures. Inspired by the historic Everett Street station facilities, the limited-run Milwaukee-Style Station and Train Shed (#933-2943, $249.98) kit will be available in December 2007.

By the late 19th century, railroads were the symbol of modern technology. Competition was keen, and every railroad serving a city typically built its own grand station, each trying to outdo and outspend the others. From roughly 1860 to 1890 many were built in the High Victorian Gothic Revival style. Inspired by medieval castles and cathedrals, such designs featured strong, vertical lines that made buildings seem taller, heavy masonry construction, bold details, buttresses, windows with pointed arches, pinnacles and gables. To further capture public attention and add additional height, many designs incorporated imposing clock towers stretching well above the main building.

The Milwaukee Road's Everett Street Station, a local landmark from 1886 to 1964, is the inspiration behind this new HO Scale model. This imposing three-story structure shared many design elements with similar stations built in other medium and large American cities in this era. The kit has been engineered to capture the classic styling of the prototype and is ideal for steam- and diesel-era operations. Measuring 25-5/32 x 8-13/32 x 22" (63.8 x 21.3 x 55.8cm), it will fit a typical layout.

The Train Shed included with this limited-run set is similar to sheds found in many American cities, and will also be available separately (#933-2949, $99.98) for easy customization.

Additional HO Scale structure kits offered in this series include a matching Freight House (#933-2954, $29.98), a Freight Office (#933-2953, $31.98) and an octagonal Gateman's Tower (#933-2944, $32.98) that is perfect for protecting city streets. Also available are the Yard Office (#933-2830, $29.98) and Walthers Water Street Building (#933-2814, $39.98).

Milwaukee Road fans will be able to serve their new station with an authentic Hiawatha consist of 10 HO Scale cars (#932-9200 series; 2007-2008 deliveries), based on equipment in service circa 1955. Matching PROTO 2000™ E7 A Units will also be available in sound & DCC (#920-47950 series) or standard DC (#920-40950 series) versions to power these trains.

For more information on Walthers new 75th Anniversary Structures, Twin Cities Hiawatha series and accessories, or to locate a dealer, visit Walthers on the Internet at www.walthers.com. Call 414-527-0770 or write Walthers, P.O. Box 3039, Milwaukee, WI 53201-3039.