A series of articles he wrote on building train control and signaling systems led to requests from other modelers that he began manufacturing them.

The first ad (in the May issue of The Model Maker) offered a 24-page, 15¢ catalog that listed rail, couplers, and electrical supplies.

Space was found on Erie Street, where everything—from milled wood parts to metal castings to decals—was made in-house.

Bill brought operating layouts to the 1939 World's Fair, which gave the hobby a big boost.

Combining a freight car with a related industry, the Cornerstone Series makes it possible for modelers to duplicate authentic operations, enhancing layout realism.The Train Line Deluxe Sets and locomotives debuted in 1994.

The Proto 2000 line allowed Walthers to start offering its full passenger train subscription sets with all in-house products.

Some blamed companies like Walthers that have become increasingly vertically integrated for putting many of the small suppliers and Local Hobby Shops out of business.