Wagonmasters

During World War II, automobile production in America virtually halted, as manufacturing plants switched over to making materials needed for the war effort. But when the war ended, growing families, long suburban commutes, and a new interstate highway system demanded a newer and larger family car, signaling the birth of the station wagon. Filmmakers Sam Smartt and Chris Zaluski's PBS-aired documentary looks at the heyday of the station wagon (roughly the late 1940s through the 1970s). With its boxy shape, grills, wire wheels, chrome, and wood grain finishing, the station wagon was a symbol of success, freedom, and the upward mobility of the working class. Fans and weekend hobbyists here talk about the station wagon's appeal, which seems to grow as their numbers on the road diminish (road warriors travel thousands of miles to rally at races and car shows). Later referred to as a "stuck in the Fifties" symbol, and a "mom car" perfect for taking the kids to a drive-in or little league game, the station wagon was being satirized by the 1980s in movies like National Lampoon's Family Vacation. But what really doomed the wagon were periodic gas shortages, rising gas prices, and a growing environmental awareness. By the 1990s, station wagons had all but become a thing of the past, replaced by the ubiquitous minivan. Likely to appeal to auto enthusiasts and nostalgia buffs, this is recommended. Aud: P. (S. Rees)