PROTOTYPE AND BACKGROUND INFO:

 A boxcar is a railroad car that is enclosed and generally used to carry freight. The boxcar, while not the simplest freight car design, is considered one of the most versatile since it can carry most loads. Boxcars have side sliding doors of varying size and operation. Originally they were hand-loaded, but in more recent years mechanical assistance such as forklifts have been used to load and empty them faster. The 50-foot boxcar made its first appearance in the 1930s and steadily grew in popularity over the years. Today, the 50-foot boxcar remains the most common size. Boxcars are perhaps the best-recognized pieces of equipment ever put into service.