
via
this auction
"Interesting and obscure Paia kit meant to emulate engine and whistle sounds for model railroad.
From the Paia catalog:
If model railroading is one of your hobbies you probably have at least one problem in common with every other railroad buff in the world--finding a steam whistle sound for your layout. If you're not inclined to invest the dough necessary to install boiler and pipes for a real whistle this design for an electronic substitute may be for you. You couldn't get any closer to the sound of a real locomotive even if you bought ol' 99 and rolled her into your living room."
Just out of curiousity, how many of you are into model train railroading as well? This is a serious question. I'll explain why later in the comments, and/or if you are, feel free to comment as well.