Woodie Wagons, station wagons with bodies made out of wood, were very popular among upper-class Americans during the first half of the 20th century. Given that most vehicles at the time were crafted out of wood (trains, carriages, boats, etc.), it made sense for early cars to be made out of wood as well. However, as the use of steel became more accessible and prominent in manufacturing, the use of wood in automobiles became a matter of aesthetics rather than practicality.
Henry Ford acquired over four hundred thousand acres of forest in western Michigan in 1920, which allowed for an unlimited supply of lumber to be used in his car assembly. However, given their high cost and low demand, Ford woodie wagons were made in limited numbers (usually upon request) and sold to individual customers. Ford itself only sold 1654 woodie wagons throughout their availability.
The wooden finish was applied to different Ford models throughout the years. Such as the 1937 Deluxe Station Wagon and the 1938 Perfect woodie, offered as alternatives to the traditional Ford lineup. The limited production of these custom made models has made it hard to find them in the classic market, and therefore favorites among collectors.