Until recent years the humble caboose has played an important role in railroad operations. It housed a Conductor and perhaps two or three brakemen. These men kept a sharp eye on the cars ahead of them and an eye open for danger.

Traditionally, crewmen rode in a cupola in the top of the car, viewing the train from on high. As times passed, and freight cars got taller, bay windows were added to the side, assuring the crew still had a view of the cars ahead.

Technology such as electric hotbox detectors (for over-heated wheel bearings) eliminated the requirement for eyes to be focused on the train as it rolled along. Still, you can find cabooses in service nation-wide as buffer or pusher cars. These are used to ease freight cars into tight sidings or industrial plants where the weight of the locomotive might be a problem.

The cars have two power pickup rollers for interior lighting and flashing red marker lights on the rear.