Walthers is one of the oldest family-owned model train manufacturer in the US. The current president of Walthers, Phil Walthers, is the grandson of the founder Bill Walthers. The company was founded in 1932, starting out with O scale model trains and accessories. The company temporarily ceased production during the WWII to save on supplies. By the time Walthers temporarily closed, it was already manufacturing HO scale model and accessories. The company also owns Life-Like products since 2005 which also manufactures high quality model trains.

The production of N scale model trains started during the 70s. The production of this model scale was caused by a slump during the 60s. Like most companies, Walthers was looking for ways to continue production without spending too much. The result is the production of their N scale model. Every year, Walthers releases new N scale model trains and carefully catalogs them in their yearly reference books. Complementing the N scale model trains are the accessories with the same scale. Because of their experience and high regard to tradition, Walthers N scale model trains have the same quality like their HO and O scale counterparts. The accuracy of design as well variety of models has made Walthers the choice of most hobbyists.