Menards recently sent Classic Toy Trains a box of sample products. At the bottom was a small package I almost overlooked because of its size. It was marked “O Scale Telephone Poles” (No. 275-9417). I was heading to the workshop to test another product, so I added the telephone pole box to my pile. Before I knew it, I was inspired to install these on our in-house layout, the City Terminal & Transfer!
Inside the box are three poles. They measure approximately 6 inches tall. My research found that prototypical poles measure between 40-60 feet tall. In O scale, that would make them between 7.5 and 10 inches. I think Menards made a good choice in making these a bit undersize. You want them to be noticed but not to dominate the scene.
Each pole has four insulators, a crossarm, and two crossarm supports. In addition, one pole has a distribution transformer with extra wiring. (If you’re curious, I found this diagram of utility pole parts interesting.) The pole, crossarm, and supports are made from wood, while the insulators and transformers are either MDF or a type of plastic.
I found an elevated area on the CT&T where I thought the poles would look good. If you’re going to install these in an area with a plaster or wood base, you’ll want to drill a small hole first. If you have an area with a foam insulation base, like I did, you could simply push them into place. First, I used the pole to create a hole into the base. I then added a small amount of carpenter’s glue to the bottom of the pole, and pushed it into place.
Did I measure the distance between the poles? No, I just eyeballed it. Though, it probably would have made more sense to measure first. I also ignored prototypical distances between each pole (about 25 inches if using 100 foot spacing). I didn’t have that kind of space, and I felt that the distance was too great.
I adjusted the poles until they looked straight to me. Let the glue dry, and you’re done! I love how a small detail can add more depth to a scene. If you’re looking for an easy upgrade to a section of your layout, these telephone poles are an easy way to accomplish that.
Note: Menards is currently out of stock on the telephone poles, but per an email to me dated Sept. 10, 2025, more are in production. I suggest checking their website and/or signing up for their weekly emails to keep tabs on product information.
