With the addition of the flathead V-8 to the venerable Ford product line in 1932, Henry Ford’s more utilitarian offerings became considerably more capable machines, providing his customers with boundless opportunities for adventure further afield than ever before. Ford’s wooden-bodied station wagons were a resounding success and, by 1934, were a part of all facets of American life.

This 1934 V8 Station Wagon is likely one of the most intact and original examples extant. According to one account, this Woodie was sold new to a resident of an exclusive enclave of Santa Barbara, California. It was chauffeur operated and maintained, and remained with the original family for approximately 35 years. In the late 1960s, already an unusually well-preserved example, the Woodie was acquired by an early Ford authority in Altadena, California, and was warehoused for a further 40 years.

In 2007, the Ford, by then claiming true time capsule status with its original finishes appearing intact, was purchased by noted Woodie preservationist and historian Nick Alexander, and would become an important piece of his massive Ford Woodie collection. The original wood was carefully re-varnished and the paint, chrome, and roof material, believed to be original, were carefully preserved. Inside, the upholstery, painted metal dash, and front rubber mat appear original as well and display an irreplaceable patina with several splits in the fabric and at the seams. The engine bay and undercarriage likewise show the passage of time, but are perfectly in keeping with an unrestored, well-respected machine. In 2009, the Station Wagon was acquired by the consignor and has since received expert care and sparing use. As one of the last of its kind to exist at a preservation level, and likely impossible to replace, this Woodie is deserving of special admiration and consideration.

*Please note that the VIN listed on the title for this vehicle contains a typographical error; the first character of the VIN is listed as an “I”, but is in fact a “1”.