05-05-2010, 10:58 AM
I think the biggest impediment to a true walk around control on a large layout was the need to have the throttle constantly "tethered" to the layout. I think the old analog command control systems were the first to allow the train to continue running with the throttle unplugged while the operator walked to the next station. I'm sure that Tony Koester's Allegheny Midland, and Allen McClelland's V&O were both walk around from the beginning. I would guess probably mid 1960's.