Before the station wagon became an iconic part of American family life, it belonged to a different social class. Reputedly, the term “station wagon” was first developed based on the common practice of the owner of a country house traveling to the train station to pick up his guests and their luggage for the weekend. Later, the station wagon became associated with use as a utility vehicle for servants of the house, and it was also perhaps used for the occasional picnic or quail hunt. Yet, it was as much a part of the life well-lived and a symbol of genteel prosperity.

That is the purpose that this 1941 Ford Super DeLuxe served for so many years in its original ownership. It is a symbol of a bygone time, when these wagons could be seen regularly on the road, often with their owner’s monogram or yacht club burgee proudly borne on the doors.

This Station Wagon was originally owned by a family near Blairstown, New Jersey, and it would be more accurate to say that it was part of the family, as it remained in their care until the late 1980s. Near the end of their ownership, it was comprehensively restored by Marty Beron, of Grey Hills Auto Restoration in Blairstown. The family had wanted their much-appreciated car to wind up with a collector after their ownership was over. Accordingly, it wound up in the fine stable of Ralph Marano, where it remained for approximately five years, and then it moved to the collection of Malcolm Pray in May 1996.

This Ford is finished in the appropriately titled hue of Coach Maroon, and its 25-year-old restoration has mellowed in the best possible way. It still exhibits an outstanding level of finish and detail, and it is better than it was in 1941. Under the hood, the correct hoses and clips are evident. Much of the body wood remains original, and all of it is varnished to a superb shine, with the inside of the body resembling the hull of a fine wooden boat. Most notably, the extensive blond wood paneling is particularly stunning, with several sections of figured maple in prominent areas. The original-type imitation leather interior is in superb condition, and the odometer shows 80,375 miles, which are believed to be original. The dashboard even contains an original radio and dash clock.

This Ford Wagon is a fine older restoration that can still be a point of pride in any collection, whether the focus is on flathead V-8 Fords or landmark estate conveyances.