1956 Cadillac Hess & Eisenhardt Station Wagon

There were many fine coachbuilders that once dotted the American landscape, but the name of Hess & Eisenhardt carries an allure of fine craftsmanship and ingenious engineering.  Indeed, the Hess & Eisenhardt name has been affixed to many of the limousines built for the various Presidents of the United States.  In 1955 and 1956, Hess & Eisenhardt built a station wagon in conjunction with Cadillac that was a top-of-the-line car for the American family.  Designed by Bill Hess himself, these luxury station wagons were built on the Series 62 models using a commercial cowl and floor pan from Cadillac.  The Hess & Eisenhardt Company worked their magic on the 129-inch wheelbase Cadillac creating a stunning car that was a well-balanced design.  A number of innovations were used in the construction of the luxury wagon including doors by Fleetwood and rear tailgate glass used from the Chevrolet Nomad wagon.  The end result was that the wagon stood two-inches taller than the usual Series 62 from Cadillac and weighed in at an astounding 5,000 pounds.

Offered here is a fine example of this rolling piece of American history; a beautiful cream colored edition that is visually set off by chrome window pillars and a wood grain appliqué, which were just a few of the visual amenities that made the Cadillac wagon stand out from the rest.  This car is unique as it is equipped with two four-barrel carburetors on its Eldorado engine.  It’s also equipped with Sabre wheels, Eldorado floor trim, a roof rack, and a wood grain mahogany appliqué.  This car has been mechanically and cosmetically restored to its original condition with new leather in cream with saddle brown trim and new eggshell cream paint.  Although a large car, the expansive use of glass makes it an easy car to drive anywhere.  Overall, this is a car that has its own chapter in Cadillac’s stellar history as it offers the ultimate in luxury in an American car.