By Christina Grand Porter, Local Author
HUNTSBURG, OHIO – If you’re a fan of model trains, Ohio history, or magical miniature worlds, the Corner Field Model Railroad Museum, Trading Post, and Train Shop in Geauga County should be your next stop.
Owner Tom Elesh has been a train enthusiast since childhood. He received his first toy—a rubber push-and-pull train—at age 4 and later worked for Cleveland’s Trading Post Train Shop in the 1970s and ’80s. In 2016, he brought his lifelong dream to life by founding Corner Field in Huntsburg. The museum opened in 2017 and has steadily grown in popularity ever since.
Today, the Elesh family—including wife Vicki, son Tom Jr., and daughter Ashley—runs this one-of-a-kind destination, which has become a magnet for train lovers from across the globe.
The Largest Family-Owned O-Gauge Model Railroad in the U.S.
Walk through the doors and prepare to be amazed. Corner Field is home to the largest family-owned and operated O-gauge model railroad layout in the United States. The display, which took eight years to build, captures both the nostalgic charm of the 1940s and the energy of modern life.
The museum features:
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Over 7,000 feet of track
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More than 250 O-gauge locomotives (steam, diesel, subway, and electric)
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160+ turnout switches
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130+ animated scenes
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More than 700 freight cars and 200 passenger cars
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3,000+ detailed buildings and structures, some dating back 75 years
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Thousands of miniature people, vehicles, and accessories
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Surprise appearances by Godzilla and King Kong
Visitors are drawn to detailed scenes including Amish farm life, a bustling vintage carnival, a 1942 veterans’ hospital carved from a solid block of wood, a 1950s McDonald’s selling 15¢ hamburgers, and a fully functioning miniature Polar Express.
Family Passion, Community Roots
Tom Jr. is the creative force behind much of the intricate layout. He handles construction, maintenance, scenery, wiring, and more. He’s also incorporated personal and local history into the display, including a model of the Walter C. Best Wildlife Preserve—land donated in honor of his great-grandmother—and a replica of Best Sand in Chardon, a company founded by his great-grandfather.
This attention to detail and storytelling is what makes Corner Field more than just a model train museum—it’s a living tribute to local history and multigenerational passion.
Train Shop & Repairs
In addition to the museum, the Trading Post and Train Shop offers a wide variety of new and used model trains, accessories, and repair services. Popular brands include Lionel, MTH, Williams, American Flyer, K-Line, and Weaver. Shoppers can also find Gargraves track, train smoke (even Christmas-scented!), whistles, engineer caps, and other fun finds.
Need a repair? Bring in your train outside the holiday season to avoid the Christmas rush.
A Global Attraction With Local Heart
Thanks to their growing YouTube presence, the Elesh family welcomes visitors from across the country and around the world. Guests have traveled from Canada, the U.K., the Philippines, China, Russia, Costa Rica, and Hawaii, among others. One memorable visitor even ran the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films.
Magical During the Holidays
Christmas is peak season at Corner Field. From the day after Thanksgiving through New Year’s, the museum transforms into a holiday wonderland. Highlights include a fully animated Polar Express set with sound effects, making it a magical experience for all ages.
Whether you’re a longtime train collector, a history buff, or simply seeking a fun family outing, this museum is worth the visit. “Mark your calendar,” says Elesh, “and give yourself and your loved ones the gift of wonder and nostalgia.”
Plan Your Visit
📍 Corner Field Model Railroad Museum, Trading Post, and Train Shop
📍 Address: 16720 Pioneer Road, Huntsburg, OH 44062
📞 Phone: 440-636-5162 or 216-661-7300
🕐 Hours:
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Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
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Thursday & Sunday: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
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Closed Mondays, Tuesdays, and all major holidays
For more information, visit their YouTube channel or follow them on social media.
