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What Is the Scale for Department 56?

Department 56 began making ceramic and porcelain Christmas villages in 1976 with the release of six buildings in its "Snow Village" series. In addition to its lighted houses, the company also makes accessories such as cars, trees, fences and people. Over the years, Department 56 has expanded its product line with more villages, including "Dickens," "North Pole" and "Alpine Village." The company also manufactures "Snow Babies" figurines. Knowing the scale of these villages can help you match them with the appropriate model train.

Definition of Scale
- Scale means the ratio of the model to the real thing. For example, model train "O" scale has a ratio of 1:48 while the "HO" scale is 1:86. Minor variations occur in the industry depending on the manufacturer and age of the train.
Scale of Lighted Houses and Accessories
- Department 56 lighted houses and accessories do not match in scale. The accessories are actually scaled larger than the houses. Because the products are made from porcelain or ceramic, they shrink when baked in a kiln. To maintain as much detail as possible, Department 56 makes the accessories larger.
Model Train Scale and Department 56 Villages
- Department 56 does not have a definitive scale for matching its villages to model trains. Model railroad enthusiasts, however, have made some suggestions. The original "Snow Village" works well with model train scale "O," and the company's other villages are close to an "HO" scale.

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