Operating Era: 1885-1917. A large number of simple flat cars were home-built by the Saint Paul, Minneapolis and Manitoba railway during the mid-1880s in anticipation of westward construction. Typical of 19th century "platform cars", they were 28 and 30 feet long and featured seven stake pockets. They did not have air brakes. Beginning in 1890, these cars were repainted with the familiar Great Northern lettering, but some cars still carried Saint Paul, Minneapolis and Manitoba lettering as late as 1896. The 28 foot cars lasted until 1905 and a few of the 30 foot cars hung on as late as 1916.

Similar cars could be found on railroads nationwide during the 1870s and 1880s, making this car an excellent candidate for kitbashing.

Version A: 28 Foot, Saint Paul, Minneapolis and Manitoba

Version B: 30 Foot, Saint Paul, Minneapolis and Manitoba

Version C: 28 Foot, Great Northern

Version D: 30 Foot, Great Northern