Ford’s 1948 model year began and ended early, as work was feverishly progressing on the all-new models that were designed by George Walker; thus, the older cars were continued almost without change. A new model number, 89A, and serial number prefix were assigned in October 1947. Station wagon production halted at Ford’s Iron Mountain, Michigan, plant in March 1948 to prepare for building the new hybrid steel-wood bodies for 1949. Thus, total Ford wagon volume for the 1948 model year was just 8,912, which was barely half of 1947’s production, in a season that was half as long. Production of the new-type bodies at Iron Mountain would soar, as the output for 1949 more than doubled the previous record.

This 1948 Super Deluxe Station Wagon features an older restoration, but it has been well cared for. The car, which was formerly in the collection of late television producer Wayne Thomas, has original wood with minimal weathering and a very high-quality finish. The brown artificial leather seats are in good condition, and the dashboard exhibits very good plastic and what looks like original wood grain. The engine compartment and undercarriage show some age and use, but they are entirely serviceable. It is also equipped with a radio, heater, and driver’s side cowl mirror, making it a fine example of the last of the archetypal Ford “woodies.”