While engaging in some idle office chatter, speculating about what building Menards might come up with next, someone said “They need a gas station.” I discounted that, since there was a run of Menards gas station made for the home improvement chain by Woodland Scenics few years back. Well, I was wrong. Behold the no. 279-4431 Wally’s gas station!
The model represents a mid-century service station with some Art Deco curves on the Shell signage on the left and right corners, as well as the oval above the office proudy proclaiming it to be Wally’s station.
The building has two maintenance bays, a door into the shop, and a five-segment window for the office. The interior is blacked out. But there is another door right below the signage stating “Restrooms.”
This is a prosperous business, with six refueling pumps. You’ll also find a station for air by the pumps, and even a rack for oil cans. Other add-on details include trash cans, a 50-gallon drum, old tires, and a hand truck.
The last time I saw an oil can rack wasn't at a gas pump, but in an antique store! Very, very retro.
There are three employees. One must assume they are Wally, Gomer, and Goober. And Jack is chilling near the soda machine.
The gas pump globes are all illuminated, and the decoration with the meter suggests gas is 18-cents a gallon. With that factoid, I’d date this as maybe 1964!
The show piece is the large Shell sign above the office. It rotates. It isn’t internally illuminated, but there are LEDs in the circular ring that cast light upon it.
This is a neat accessory that functions quietly and will serve a product needed by most of the folks in your Train Town.
The no. 279-4431 Wally’s gas station costs $89.99 plus shipping. Order online at www.Menards.com/Trains and opt for free shipment to your local Menards.
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