Menards has released a structure with a presidential twist: a house based on Ronald Reagan’s boyhood home.
Reagan’s primary boyhood home is located at 816 S. Hennepin Ave. in Dixon, Ill., This two-story, white frame house is where he and his family lived from 1920 to 1923. It’s on the National Register of Historic Places, and is open to the public for tours.
The Reagan House (275-9574) is quite similar to its prototype. Based on photos I found online, the model captures the overall look of the actual house quite well.
The front features a sign, figures of Nancy and Ronald Reagan, a red velvet carpet running up the porch steps leading to the front door, and, of course, Jack the German shepherd. Foliage includes three shrubs and two flowering plants hanging from the porch. I like the three patriotic buntings hanging from the porch railing; it matched some of the prototype photos.
The lawn is flocked and you’ll find the flocking climbing the corners of the house to represent weeds or ivy.
I really like the roof shingle detail. The texture feels similar to asphalt shingles. The roof ridge and hips also add a realistic look, as do the gutters and downspouts.
As with most Menards structures, there’s plenty of LED lighting. There’s a strip of lights on the porch ceiling, and four in the house interior. The windows are frosted with curtains, so you can’t see directly inside. If you were so inclined, it might be neat to add clear window glazing and include some interior details.
Please note: Accessory lighting requires power from Menard’s 4.5-volt power supply, sold separately. You can use the 279-4061/4361, 4060/4362, or 4050. Connect it through a single plug over the tabletop or from beneath the house through a hole underneath the base.
My only complaint about this structure is the low quality of the Reagan figures. They don’t look much like their counterparts and could use some sprucing up. I’d start with repainting the face and hair on both figures. I’d also make Nancy’s clothing all red, her signature color.
Overall, though, this is a nice structure that would work for many eras. If you want a more generic house, you could remove the figures and change the sign to a bed and breakfast or another business. Most any layout could find a place for this structure.
For more information, visit www.menards.com/trains. There is an option for free shipping to your local Menards store.
O gauge Reagan House
Features: LED lighting, two figures, scenic details, Jack the German shepherd
MSRP: $100
Website: menards.com/trains
