Athearn HO 50ft Superior Plug Door Boxcar, N & W #296965 (ATH71057)

Railroad boxcars are perhaps not only the best-recognized pieces of equipment ever put into service but also one of the most identifiable symbols of the industry itself. During the early years of the industry freight was hauled on simple flatcars or early gondolas. This model is based on a late 1960’s design built by Fruit Growers Express. As they were insulated, the cars were well suited to handle canned foods or other temperature-sensitive cargo. The 10ft wide plug doors allowed for a better seal against outside temperature intrusion, as well as ease of forklift loading and a smooth interior wall. What made boxcars great, at least in the eyes of the railroads, was, their ability to haul about anything! Railroads thrive on redundancy to maximize efficiency.