When civilian automobile production resumed post-World War II for the 1946 model year, Chevrolet’s first “woodie” wagon was offered as part of the Fleetmaster line. It was built on a 116-inch wheelbase chassis with a 90 horsepower “Stovebolt Six.” The body was beautifully constructed of ash structural framing, with mahogany inner panels and a roof formed by stretching leatherette over a wooden frame, as well as steel fenders and a hood, which were usually painted dark colors to accentuate the wood’s natural beauty.

The basic design of this wagon, as with other Chevrolet models, remained in production for three years with virtually no major changes. In the 1948 model year, which lasted from February 1948 to January 1949, approximately 10,171 wagons were built. These were the last true “woodies,” as they had woodwork, built by Chevrolet, that actually served a functional purpose in the body, and it was also the only 1948 model that had a list price of over $2,000. As with other wood-bodied wagons of this era, quality survivors are extremely rare today.

This 1948 Chevrolet Fleetmaster Station Wagon is the recipient of a frame-up restoration that was executed sometime in the 2000’s according to the prior owner. The current owner found this Fleetmaster in a garage in Mississippi. The aging owner did not have much of the provenance, but it is known that the current owner represents the cars third owner.

It is reported that this example could be a daily driver if you were to add this beautiful car to your collection. Of the number produced (mentioned above), only 60 to 65 are said to be remaining that are registered with the National Woodie club. The Fleetmaster engine was the “Blue Flame” overhead valve, inline six-cylinder that displaced 216.5-cid and delivered 90-hp. Power was transferred through a three-speed manual gearbox with column-shift. This “woodie” has been converted to 12-volt, with a new battery, alternator, security system and fuel pump.

It’s no secret that “woodie” wagons are red hot collectables today, following decades of being overlooked by hobbyists more interested in sleek coupes and convertibles. However, their status as working vehicles throughout most of their lives has made clean, solid “woodies” incredibly difficult to find, and the cost of wood-bodied restoration projects can quickly spiral out of control. As a result, many wood-bodied cars on the market are either basket cases that require a six-figure restoration, or fully restored cars that already have that six-figure restoration completed.

This lovely 1948 Chevrolet Fleetmaster eight-passenger wagon is a rare exception. It appears to have been lovingly restored in the not-too-distant past, and the foundation was undoubtedly a solid original car. Today it is in above-average condition, and is a “woodie” that you can actually drive and enjoy without worries, thanks to some smart upgrades. Three-seat woodies are always difficult to find, as original owners would typically remove the rear seat to increase cargo space, and they were never reinstalled.