The intended purposes of the 1937 Ford V-8 Station Wagon were made evident in a piece of factory literature that pronounced: “The Ford V-8 Station Wagon at the depot is a handsome representative of fashionable hotel or country estate. It forms a guest’s first impression of the protecting courtesy which he looks for throughout his visit. Proprietors, who know how to play the perfect host – hosts, who know how to extend unlimited hospitality, welcome guests with a smart Ford V-8 Station Wagon. The Station Wagon is a distinctly deluxe model. For the country clubs, inns, gentlemen farmers, it is a pattern of stylishness. For transporting a weekend party to the yacht, to the stables, the lodge or to the cottage by the seashore, it is ideal since it enables the party to travel en masse, taking supplies with them in comfort.”

Although late to market with a factory station wagon (Durant Motors Star being the first in 1923), Ford literally commanded that segment of the industry since it first entered in 1929. Sales of nearly 142,000 wood-bodied wagons through 1948 easily established the company as the nation’s wagonmaster.

The new Lincoln-Zephyr had a huge influence on the 1937 Fords. The pointed prow, penned by designer E.T. “Bob” Gregorie, was a direct takeoff, as were the teardrop-shaped headlights recessed into the fenders. The first Ford with an “alligator” hood, it was also novel in placing the battery in the engine compartment.

The 221-cid, 85-hp V-8 engine was revised for better cooling, placing the water pumps at the bottom and moving the water outlets to the middle of the cylinder heads. This configuration would endure for more than a decade. The rod-operated mechanical brakes gave way to a cable arrangement. Station wagons received some updates of their own. A bench replaced the individual seats in the second row, located to the left so that passengers could easily access the third seat via the right side. For the first time there was a glass-windowed liftgate at the rear. This particular car also has glass side windows.

This car is reported as a two owner vehicle that is presented in primarily original condition. The wood framing is in excellent condition with no damage or repairs; likewise, the exterior wood paneling has no damage and needs no repair. The Ford’s engine, interior, wheels, frame and additional essentials are all reported as original, although it likely has replacement exterior roof material and has been converted to a 12-V system. Additional equipment includes coveted spider wheel trim and whitewall tires. Painted correct Washington Blue, it has a black interior.

Ford wagon sales grew steadily into the 1940s, and additional features were added. Many collectors, however, regard the early models as perhaps the purest of the series. This car is an excellent example of that elegant simplicity. It would still be welcomed at any of the social settings or clubs that it was originally intended for nearly 80 years ago.