lettering for SSW’s 50’ single 8’ door boxcar - as delivered 1941 scheme

The St. Louis Southwestern Railway was organized in 1891 with reporting marks SSW, and 1,600 miles of track, mostly between Tyler, Texas and East St.Louis; including service to Arkansas, Illinois and Louisiana. The road had two passenger trains: the Star and the Morning Star. In 1932, the SP gained control of the SSW but kept it as a separate company.

In August 1941, the SSW’s Pine Bluff, Arkansas shops built 95, 50’ single-door boxcar with 8’ doors. Series were 20000-20094. These cars used the light weight side sheeting requiring the alternate rivet pattern and bracing, distinctive of some series of the SSW, SP and the UP. Later in August of 1944, the SSW shops built an additional 90 identical cars as Series 20110-20199. Starting were 15 cars with end doors - Series 20095-20109.

Paint & Lettering: Car bodies and truck sideframes were painted SP red-brown: TCP 211. Underbody painted with black car cement. Wheels were unpainted and allowed to rust and gather a coating of axle grease.

Decal set designed and created at Protocraft Decals
Printed by Microscale Industries