From a posting on Steam Era Freight Cars - sorry about yahoo's masked email but the gentleman's name is here and it comes recommended by lots of good folks:
To all – I just received my copy of Pickle and Vinegar Makers of the Midwest by David Leider. It not only gives the history of the companies and description of the processes but also more car photos and plans than I ever imagined existed. Truly a labor of love. He doesn’t appear to have a web site but his email is sooauthor@... 140 pages on quality stock, 190 photos, 31 maps and 68 drawings and illustrations for $32.95 plus $4.95 shipping. Highly recommended. – Al Westerfield