LMS Open Third (TO) 9355 was designed by W A (later Sir William) Stanier following his appointment as CME to the LMS. It was built by the BRC&W at Smethwick in 1936 as lot number 954 to Diagram 1915.
After service with the LMS and BR, 9355 was one of two carriages acquired by Gilt Edge Carpets of Kidderminster for use as a mobile carpet showroom, the train being hauled by former SVR resident 61994 The Great Marquess.
Gilt Edge Carpets donated it to the SVR in August 1971. On arrival it had no internal fittings and was initially used as a Bar Car with loose tables and chairs, and later with fixed seats and a counter. A major refit in 1985-86 saw a conversion to the design of a 1930s LMS Buffet Car, following which it was given the fictitious number 149 as a continuation of the original 1932 145 - 148 Bar Car series. In 1996 it was repainted in GWR livery, for use in the SVR Dining Car set.
It has now been repainted in LMS livery as 149 and is regularly used in the LMS Maroon set (Sel L). With the exception of the half-bay near the vestibule, it is fitted with the same style of table lamps as fitted to LMS 7511 Restaurant First Open.
149 is owned by SVR(H).
Sources
Railway Heritage Register Carriage Survey
SVR Stock Book Ninth Edition