NETCA visits Matt Pfahl and his layout

On July 25th, over twenty NETCA members and their guests traveled to Bethlehem, Connecticut, to admire Matt Pfahl’s impressive O-gauge layout.

If you’re not familiar with Matt, he’s been a TCA member for more than 40 years after picking up the O-gauge model railroading hobby from his dad. He’s a regular at the York train show and has made many friends within the organization, both in New England and across the country.

Matt graciously invited NETCA members to see his layout and his Mack Truck restoration business. As you might imagine, it was quite extensive and impressive. Matt’s layout has been featured in the April 2026 issue of O-Gauge Railroading and on several episodes of the All Trains Considered YouTube channel.

Matt has been working on his layout for the last five years, and it’s housed in a dedicated 50-foot by 80-foot building. It’s operated by Command Control and can run several trains at simultaneously. His “Wall of Trains” is also impressive, boasting over 150 engines alone.

Visitors that day were also impressed with his Mack Truck restoration business and the extensive Mack Truck items he has, ranging from jackets to cigarette lighters and model trucks.

Matt also generously provided lunch for the entire group.

See all of the photos from the NETCA visit in the photo gallery