1940's & 50's Lionel barrel loads for freight set gons

[railroaded]

  I was wondering if anyone knew what type of the little wooden barrels normally went in Lionel train sets with gondola cars back in the 40's & 50's? I have seen two distinct types for sale. One style is smaller,  and the wood is dark. The second style barrel is larger and made of a lighter type of wood, these are shaped and styled more like the look of a modern 55 gallon steel drum than a barrel. I have seen both types in photos in guidebooks and I'm not sure which ones went with which sets. They usually seem to be seen in groups of six in the pictures. Thanks in advance.

[Anonymous]

Before 1952, gondolas were shipped with six 0209 wooden barrels that were unstained and look like a 55 gallon drum.

With the introduction of the 362 Barrel Loader in 1952, 362-78 barrels replaced the 0209.  These barrels are smaller and are stained.  There are variations related to rib design and stain color.  Most common 362-78 barrels are light brown, although there are darker brown barrels with regular or thick ribs that are harder to find.  Very early in 1952, some barrels were stained red.  These are extremely rare.

Also, most reproduction 362-78 barrels are varnished which gives them a glossy look.  Original barrels were not varnished.