Thomas (Shining Time Station replica)

A live replica of Thomas was constructed for various live events across the United States for various parades, tours and appearances.

Conception
Shining Time Station writer Rick Spencer pitched the idea of a full-scale Thomas replica to Britt Allcroft and Quality Family Entertainment to promote the show at different venues. Special effects studio Makeup & Effects Laboratories was chosen to design the vehicle.

The replica was designed around a Jeep frame, with MEL being supplied references from the Gauge 1 model as a guide for the final product, composed of a metal outline with the body being made of plywood and fiberglass.

1989 Chicago Thanksgiving Parade
The replica made its first public appearance at the 1989 Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on 26 November. Didi Conn, Brian O'Connor, Nicole Leach and Jason Woliner were also in attendance as Stacy Jones, Schemer, Tanya and Matthew, respectively as part of a Shining Time Station float. Spencer had to instruct others how to drive the vehicle as he was the only one who actually knew how.

First Inauguration of Bill Clinton
The replica Thomas and the cast of Shining Time Station made an appearance at the inauguration of President Bill Clinton on 20 January 1993. Thomas was a part of the “Sharing the Dream” float and led a segment of the parade featuring characters from other PBS series, including Sesame Street, Barney & Friends, and Mister Rogers' Neighborhood.

Shining Time Station Live!
The replica made several appearances at Shining Time Station Live! Shows between June 1993 to early 1996. The cross-country show would perform mainly in shopping malls, schools and at special events throughout the year, with performances usually being played to full capacity crowds.

The show centered around Richard, a young boy who wants to be an engineer when he grows up. He tries to operate Thomas but does not know what all of the controls are for and ends up derailing. Fortunately, the Shining Time Station crew come to the rescue and help to put Thomas back on track, with Richard learning a lesson in patience and co-operation.

Thomas would also participate in quiz shows before the show (whistling at correct answers and blowing steam at incorrect answers) and be available for photo opportunities at the end.

Kids for Character
Kids for Character is a 1996 VHS released by Lyrick Studios which teaches virtues of having good character with the help of favorite children's characters from Barney to Ms. Frizzle. The replica Thomas makes an appearance at the end during the final song, which was filmed at Universal Studios Orlando.

Thomas and the Magic Railroad
The replica Thomas would be heavily featured in different promotions for Thomas and the Magic Railroad. The model would be present alongside the Lady prop at at Loews Cineplex Century Plaza Theatres in Century City, California. The model would also participate in a photo shoot with Peter Fonda in New York City. Finally, the model was a part of the grand prize for a sweepstakes by Nick Jr., participating at a train-themed party with special guest Mara Wilson.

New York Botanical Garden
The replica made yearly appearances at the New York Botanical Garden from 1997 to 2009 during their Holiday Train Show. The model would be featured alongside Sir Topham Hatt and provided photo opportunities and activities for children to get involved with. Following the transition of the show from models to CGI in 2009, the replica would be replaced with a newer Thomas that remains involved at the garden.

Misty Island Rescue
The final appearance of the replica was for a promotional event for the DVD release of Misty Island Rescue at the Waterfront Museum in Brooklyn, New York. In a reference to the special, the replica was brought to the event on a draft that was being tugged by The Pegasus, a historic tugboat that participated in both World Wars. Thomas was docked at Brooklyn Bridge Park for the day for visitors to enjoy. The model is assumed to be in storage following the event.

Trivia

 * The Jeep frame utilized in the construction of Thomas was reportedly left over from the production of Star Wars in 1977.
 * MEL still has the original mold used to create Thomas' face.