Bruce Gardner
Bruce has more than 30 years of experience working at SMS, loves all hobbies and knows the store inventory very well. He is the third Gardner family member to own and operate Scale Model Supplies.
About Us
Scale Model Supplies
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Rodger Gardner, hobby enthuiastOur dad had many interests, but really loved trains. -
Our Dad...was also a pilot and enjoyed flying and going to airshows. -
Our Dad...shared his love of trains with his family.
Our History
Rodger Gardner bought Scale Model Supplies in early 1982 when it was located at 523 Lexington Avenue, on the first floor of a duplex. Maybe some of our older customers remember our Dad and the old shop -- and how tiny it was!
Our Dad really enjoyed spending time during his retirement at the little shop, and he quickly hired his oldest son, Doug, to help him run the shop. Doug soon convinced our Dad that the business had growth potential and Doug had some great ideas about how that could happen. Soon our Dad sold the business to Doug with the stipulation that Dad could come to the shop anytime!
The Business Needed More Space to Grow
Doug focused on building the business and expanding the inventory, but needed a larger retail space to make it happen -- and one close by so previous customers would not be inconvenienced. Luckily, Doug found a basement retail space in an old bowling alley just a few blocks from the old shop.
Scale Model Supplies moved to 458 N. Lexington Avenue and for the next 30+ years, the business grew into one of the largest hobby stores in the Twin Cities. Doug expanded the inventory and included new hobby items, such as slot cars, die cast items, more model kits, plus stamp and coin collecting products, memorabilia, and even dollhouses!
Our Dad is gone now, but we are certain he would be proud that the business is still family-owned.
Scale Model Supplies' OLD location at
523 N. Lexington Parkway
Scale Model Supplies' current location:
458 N. Lexington Parkway
(one block south of Metro Green Line)
See Map & Directions
The Staff
Doug Gardner
Doug acquired Scale Model Supplies from our dad in the early 1980s. Doug moved the shop to its current location and greatly expanded it's inventory and built up the business. He retired in 2017 and helped Bruce make the transition to owner. Sadly, Doug passed away in August 2020. He will be missed by his family and all who knew him.
Helpful & Knowledgeable Staff
We have some of the most knowledeable employees in the business and they usually know the answer to just about any hobby question.