About us...

Midwest Train Works, Inc. was established in November, 2001 to acquire the product line Decho Scale Models, Inc. had developed and marketed since 1989. We will continue to offer the complete product line to the 1" scale community, and expect to introduce additional products in the future.

Russ Decho began offering 1" scale equipment to the hobby under the Decho Scale Models name in the late 1980's with several freight car kits which were developed in a previous joint venture, K-D Models. The original cars were made from wood, and detail parts were metal castings. Early experiments in creating detail parts in plastic evolved into later cars (most of the current line) being produced in plastic. Russ and Barry Prentice (from Scale Railroad Supply, the predecessor to 1" Scale Railroad Supply) joined forces (with 3 other people) to produce the Alco RS-3, FA-2, and FB-2 locomotives. Russ slowly bought out the other's interests in the locomotive line.

In 1999 Russ sold the locomotive portion of the business to Dick Britton (who created Britton Scale Models) in New York. At the end of 2001, I took over the freight car portion of the business, and Russ retired from his retirement job to devote his time to building structures for the Illinois Live Steamers, of which we are both members (Russ being a founding member).

After over two and a half decades of first N, then HO and G scale railroading, the large scale bug that had been nibbling at me took over in early 2000. After a few visits to the Illinois Live Steamers, and while discussing purchasing rolling stock with Russ, the fact that the remaining portion of his business was for sale was passed on to me. A light bulb went on... Why buy a few freight cars when I could buy a freight car business?? I began working with Russ in mid-2000. 

With over 5 years of working with Russ, the relationship continues. Russ assists with detail parts, consulting, and product designs. This relationship ensures the high level of craftsmanship that was synonymous with the Decho line is maintained for the next generation of large scale railroaders through the Midwest Train Works line of products.

Our goal is to continue the Decho tradition of producing high quality, authentic, and historically accurate models for you to add to your railroad collection. We look forward to serving you now and in the future....


Your's for continued good railroading,


Tim Urquhart
President, Midwest Train Works