1936 Ford Model 68 Station Wagon

From the time of its introduction in 1932 to sometime in 1936, Henry Ford had produced three million '21 Stud' flathead V-8 engines. For 1936, the engine displaced 221 cubic-inches and was rated at 85 horsepower. It was mated to a three-speed manual transmission and had braking by four-wheel hydraulically-actuated drum brakes. Advertising of the era touted a comfortable ride, rigid X-Frame, a stiff and lightweight crankshaft, aluminum piston and heads, and hardened valve seats.

Henry Ford owned his own forest, known as Iron Mountain, where he grew maple, birch, gum, and basswood. This was used for his station wagons, commonly known as the 'Woodies'. Framing and structure in these cars were of hard maple. Henry was very adamant about not allowing knots in the product. The side panels were of cross-grained exterior birch or gum plywood. Roof slats were made of basswood.

This 1936 Ford Station Wagon features front windows and side curtains for all other windows. There is a rare period radio, spotlight, dual white wall tires with trim rings, three-row seating, and metal spare tire cover. The 1936 Fords were fitted with equipment such as safety glass, dual sun visors, dual tail lights, dual hors, and even a cigar lighter.

This vehicle is chassis number 82797048 and has Murray Body Number 790-3523. It has a wheelbase that measures 112-inches and a live axle suspension with transverse leaf springs.

In 2009, this Model 68 'Woody' Station Wagon was offered for sale at the Houston Classic Auction presented by Worldwide Auctioneers in Seabrook, Texas. It was estimated to sell for $75,000 - $90,000. The lot was sold for the sum of $63,000, not including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2009