Ultimate Restorations: Badger #2: The Last Remaining Fish Car

At Avalon Rail in Wisconsin, we follow the intricate, multi-million dollar restoration of one of the world's rarest railroad cars. During the Depression of 1911, when the West was expanding at a rapid rate, bringing fingerling fish out West from the East Coast and Midwest to stock lakes and streams as food sources was a huge business. Railroad cars were designed with tanks to carry the small fish, and elegant Victorian accommodations for the crews delivering them to the waterways. The ornate 'fish cars' disappeared - all except 'Badger #2'. It's story, and the story of it's unique and difficult restoration, are a glimpse into a rarely seen chapter of American history. From duplicating lost patterns in floor coverings to rebuilding the ornate heating stove, the research is as astounding as the work itself, and the drama of getting this massive and priceless piece of history back onto the tracks is riveting entertainment.