G-Scale Junction keeps train enthusiasts on track
- G-Scale Junction, a model train store in Heath, is a stop for many train lovers.
- The business specializes in G-Scale model trains.
- For more information, call 740-967-7300 or go to gscalejunction.com.
HEATH – Jim Dorenbusch got his first model train when he was 2, and has loved them ever since.
Seven years ago, the Pataskala architect decided to turn his hobby into a business.
He owns G-Scale Junction, 570 Hebron Road, which specializes in model trains and accessories.
“You can pretty much recreate anything that goes on in real life with model trains,” he said. “We handle all scales. If we don’t have it, we can order it.”
Originally from the Cincinnati area, Dorenbusch worked as an architect in Columbus for many years. He decided to open his own firm, Junction Architecture and Design in Pataskala.
Looking for something fun, he decided to purchase G-Scale Junction.
“The love of trains gets in your blood and stays there, like a lot of hobbies,” he said.
Although the business is located on Hebron Road, he’s hoping to renovate a building in Pataskala and move the business there.
Model trains are measured by scales, which reflect the difference in size ratios between a real life train and the model. Although his store handles all scales, Dorenbusch specializes in G scale models, which are used for garden railways.
The train cars are larger and more durable, which make them a good fit for children and outdoor displays, Dorenbusch said.
G-Scale Junction sells new and used models and also makes repairs. Dorenbusch attends several train shows a year, where he meets customers from all over the world.
Some customers travel great distances to visit the stores. Others buy products on his website, he said.
“We have regular customers from New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong and Europe,” he said.
Although he enjoys serving international customers, he also likes seeing Licking County residents walk through the door. The store is popular with families with young children as well as couples who share the hobby. Some customers come in with their grandchildren.
Dorenbusch can also make custom trains, with special paint jobs, sound systems or remote controls. One of his creations was recently featured at the Ohio State Fair.
When he isn’t selling trains and shipping orders, Dorenbusch also designs and creates G scale train displays.
His work can be seen at Easton Town Center, the Franklin Park Conservatory and several museums around the country. He also helps set up the holiday train displays at the Granville Public Library every year.
Many people are drawn to model trains for a variety of reasons, Dorenbusch said. Some enjoy the history, others are curious about the mechanics or are attracted to the bright colors and sounds.
Setting up train displays, and helping others build their collection, can be hard work, but it’s also very rewarding, Dorenbusch said.
“It’s always nice to meet a lot of interesting people and get to see a lot of the displays people build,” he said. “We get to help people with some of the things they are putting together.”
ajeffries@newarkadvocate.com
740-328-8544
Twitter: @amsjeffries
Learn more
For more information about G-Scale Junction, 570 Hebron Road, call 740-967-7300, email sales@gscalejunction.com or go to gscalejunction.com.
About the series
Aces of Trades is a weekly series focusing on people and their jobs — whether they’re unusual jobs, fun jobs or people who take ordinary jobs and make them extraordinary. If you have a suggestion for a future profile, let us know at advocate@newarkadvocate.com or 740-328-8821.