I have an item that I believe was produced by the Carolwood Pacific Historical Society as a prototype for a run of 'commemorative' pieces as part of a fundraising drive. It features a picture of the Lilly Belle on the trestle, a cast iron wheel marked 'W.E.D. 1949' 'BURBANK CALIFORNIA', an approximately 2 inch section of aluminum rail, and an engraved plate with the following text:

"This wheel and length of track are from the miniature live steam railroad Walt Disney owned and operated at his home in Holmby Hills, California, from 1950 until 1953. The Lilly Belle locomotive is a 1/8 scale model of Central Pacific's No. 173 built in 1872. Edition No. ___ of 16"

I'm interested in selling it and thought I would present it here before listing it on eBay. I don't have a particular price in mind but am open to offers. There are a couple of small blemishes on the descriptive plate.

Also, if anyone has more information on the background of this item I'd love to hear it. Thanks.

Did you ever sell this item?

It's still here in my office!

If you still have this and want to sell. How much do you want? Do you have any documentation or how did you come across? I'm interested in this item.

I don't remember exactly when/where I purchased this but I'm guessing (memory is a little foggy) that I 've had it at least five years. The story (as mentioned above) is that it was a prototype for a Carolwood piece but they changed their minds before committing to the full run. I don't have any documentation other than that, perhaps someone at Carolwood recognizes it and has the 'story'. I am highly confident that the wheel is authentic. I take it on faith that the folks at Carolwood had portions of rail from the railroad.

I've had several offers but a deal has not been consummated to this point.

If someone is thinking of getting this, they better jump.

I want to thank those that expressed an interest in this item. I've accepted an offer from a forum participant and will be shipping it off to its new home shortly.

Well, I sure am happy it went to someone here. It's a nice piece that deserves a nice home!

That's great to hear that it will go to someone that will *really* appreciate it.