Thriving in Thayer County Business Award 2024

Spring Creek Model Trains Wins TCEDA’s “Thriving in Thayer County” award 2024

Jan 29, 2024

Thayer County Economic Development Alliance is excited to announce this year’s “Thriving in Thayer County” awardee: Spring Creek Model Trains from Deshler. 

Spring Creek Model Trains was started in 2000 as a hobby business for David and his wife Debbie Zucker, and has since grown into a thriving business. Their two sons Jeff and Mike have moved back with their families to continue working at the store as the second generation. Including their sons, the store supports 6 full and 4 part time employees which includes daughter-in-laws and even their grandchildren from time to time. They keep busy with their storefront and website sales but also stay active by traveling the midwest to many train shows throughout the year. They also hold a biennial train show in Deshler that attracts around 750 customers from all over the country and overseas - making Deshler a true global destination! 

“We started our model train business out of our house doing weekend shows. We have been blessed that it has grown to have a brick and mortar store in Deshler, website, and still a presence at weekend trains shows across the country. We are excited about the future with our two sons and families coming back to Deshler to be part of the Spring Creek Model Trains and look forward to what the future holds.” - Dave and Deb 

Spring Creek Model Trains is a small town store with a global impact. This unique store serves as an economic attraction to Thayer County and Deshler. A visitor sign-in book at the store shows they have had visitors from 48 states since the opening of their store. They have also hosted visitors from France, Denmark, and Australia! The Zuckers are not only active as business owners, but are civic minded as well. Their family has an active presence in Deshler’s City Council, Chamber of Commerce, Deshler Public and Lutheran Schools, local churches, and Deshler Community Fund. This family represents what it means to be community minded, and they truly help Thayer County thrive!

“Spring Creek Model Trains is a prominent asset in our community. David, Deb, their family, and their employees are a true representation of what small business values are all about: exceptional customer service, quality inventory with a vast selection, and dedication to their customers, community, and all who visit their store. Their unique business brings people to Deshler from all over the country. The train show events they host stimulate the local economy and invite even more individuals to visit Thayer County. Truly an outstanding business to have in Deshler!” 

 - Rebecca Stengel, TCEDA Board Member & Midwest Bank President

Spring Creek Model Trains was preceded in this award by Hebron True Value in 2023 and Free Day Popcorn from Byron in 2022. We love celebrating our family owned businesses! This year’s award will be presented to the Zuckers at TCEDA’s Annual Meeting at the Stastny Center on Thursday, March 14th, 2024. The public is encouraged to attend so come help us celebrate another year of thriving in Thayer County! Social hour starts at 5:30 - we hope to see you there! 

To register for your spot at the annual meeting, visit our website and click the link to register or contact our office!

Email: director.tceda@gmail.com or coordinator.tceda@gmail.com 

Phone: 402-768-7407

Website: www.tceda.org