1938 Ford Station Wagon Deluxe

An Icon from the Flathead V8 Era

From the Early Ford Flathead V8 era comes this truly exceptional 1938 Ford Deluxe Station Wagon—a remarkable piece of American automotive heritage and a rare opportunity for the discriminating Early Ford collector and enthusiast.

The Hogan Restoration & Birth of the “38 Twins”

This beautiful vehicle was restored to Concours and Early Ford V8 Club Dearborn standards by renowned Early Ford restorer Jack Hogan of Lake Oswego, Oregon. Hogan’s workshop—known to enthusiasts as “Hogan’s Hangar”—was home to more than 30 Early Ford V8 vehicles.

It was here that Hogan created the now-famous “38 Twins.”

With extraordinary attention to detail, Hogan restored two identical 1938 Ford Deluxe Woodie Wagons, completing the project in 2000. The pair were shown together across the United States and quickly became celebrated among collectors. Wherever they appeared, the Twins earned awards and recognition, and were featured in numerous automotive publications.

Quick Facts:

Production: 6,944 Units (All Deluxe Models)
Survivors: Fewer Than 50 Known
Engine: Flathead V8
Coachwork: Hand-Built Wood Body
Design: One-Year-Only (1938)

Restoration: Concours / Dearborn Standard
Notable: One of the “38 Twins”
Feature: Woodie Times (April 2002)
Provenance: Michael Dingman Collection

Collection: 100+ Early Ford V8 Vehicles
Auction: RM Auctions, June 2006
Awards: Multiple Dearborn Awards
Highlight: 2025 Best of Show Winner

National Recognition & Collector Prestige

Their reputation reached new heights when “Woodie Times” magazine featured the Twins on both the front and back covers of its April 2002 issue.

While displayed at a Ford National Meet in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the Twins caught the attention of Michael Dingman, Ford Motor Company Board Member and one of the most respected Early Ford V8 collectors. Recognizing their significance, he acquired both vehicles for his renowned collection.

The Twins were relocated from Oregon to New Hampshire, joining a collection of over 100 Early Ford V8 automobiles, each maintained in museum-quality condition.

From a Legendary Collection to Its Next Steward

View Auction Listing>

In June 2006, a select group of vehicles from the Dingman Collection was offered through RM Auctions, including nine Woodie wagons—one representing each model year from 1934 onward.

Attending this landmark event in person, I acquired this exceptional 1938 Ford Deluxe Station Wagon, becoming its proud caretaker.

Six years later, the other Twin was sold at the 2012 Dingman auction as Lot 810:

View Auction Listing of Twin>

Rarity, Craftsmanship & Historical Context

Only 6,944 Station Wagons were produced in 1938—all Deluxe models. Production was limited due to economic conditions near the end of the Great Depression and the labor-intensive craftsmanship required for the wood body.

Originally offered as commercial vehicles through Ford’s truck catalog, these wagons were used by the U.S. Park Service, resorts, and surveyors. By 1938, however, they were evolving into symbols of leisure and understated luxury.

Today, it is estimated that fewer than 50 examples survive, making this one of the most desirable pre-war Ford models.

Ford’s Vertical Integration & Woodcraft Legacy

Henry Ford’s vision of vertical integration led to ownership of vast timberlands and the creation of the Iron Mountain facility in Michigan, where approximately 300 craftsmen hand-built each wagon body.

Each example represents a level of craftsmanship and artistry rarely seen in modern automotive production.

The 1938 model is a one-year-only design, featuring a distinctive V-shaped grille inspired by yacht designer Bob Gregorie under the direction of Edsel Ford.

Its elegant styling reflects the influence of Art Deco European marques, giving the car a timeless and sophisticated presence.

Finished in its original Washington Blue, this wagon is complemented by wide whitewall tires and original steel wheels with polished stainless “spider” wheel covers.

The maple wood body has aged gracefully, developing a warm tone while maintaining exceptional structural integrity. From 2006 to 2022, the vehicle was preserved in a climate-controlled environment, ensuring outstanding condition.

Awards, Recognition & Show History

This vehicle has consistently performed at the highest level, earning:

Multiple Dearborn Awards (EFV8 Club’s highest honor)
AACA National Award
Numerous Best in Class awards
Best of Show – Las Cruces, NM (2025, 300+ cars)

It has been featured at:

Concours d’Elegance events
EFV8 National & Regional Meets
AACA Nationals
Heritage and specialty shows

Included Documentation & Collector Materials

RM / Sotheby’s 2006 Auction Catalog (Lot 2178)
Woodie Times (April 2002)
Oregonian article (2010)
Original 1938 Ford sales catalogs
EFV8 “Bible” reference book
Award plaques and show documentation
Complete ownership history binderAwards, Recognition & Show History

Mechanical Integrity & Driveability

This wagon is fully road-ready and mechanically sorted.

Flathead V8 rebuilt prior to 2006
~2,600 miles since rebuild
Discreetly installed electric fuel pump operates in tandem with the original mechanical fuel pump