Wednesday, August 2, 2023

Ramblin' On

 We both love vintage cars, and our daughter and son-in-law found the perfect place in Elizabeth, Colorado.  It is called Rambler Ranch.  The collection is far off the beaten path, back in a wooded area in the countryside. The focus was on AMC cars (American Motor Company).  It started out as Nash in 1916 by Charles Nash.  In 1954 Nash, Kelvinator and Hudson merged to become American Motors.

Ken and Lisa were in the front, with Don in the middle and me trailing behind.  I'm always at the back because I'm stopping to take pictures.
The first large building held a variety of cars: Nash Ramblers, Rebels, Ambassador cars, Javelins, Hornets and Gremlins.  Other buildings held vintage cars and other lines of classic automobiles. 

I wonder who drove this car, since the driver's side was on the right.
These older models now seem like huge boats, with enormous front engines and long bodies.


















There were only 600 Rebel Mariner station wagons made in 1967. These even had a metal anchor insignia on the back end of the car and beautiful marine blue upholstery inside.
There was plenty to look at.
This is a 1966 Classic car used by the fire department.  Look at the size of the extra red light on the hood.  That would sure get your attention.
I loved the sign on this car.  I wonder how Kenosha is doing now that AMC is no longer in business.😕
This little electric car is called the Sparrow.  Very unique looking, and it sure would stand out with the bright yellow paint job.  Only one headlight. Hmmm, I don't think I'd feel comfortable driving this car on the road.

Before cars came equipped with air conditioning, there were add-ons that could be installed.
This one is like the swamp coolers used in Arizona during times of little humidity.  Kind of bulky, but at least it would keep the car cooler.













These little Nash Ramblers were the cutest cars.  Don worked with a guy who had a collection of them and drove them around Phoenix on a regular basis.
This topof the line Nash had an unusual hood ornament. We heard that the collector's daughter had posed for it!  It was an $11.00 add on feature.


Here's a list of options available in 1954. Foam cushions were $20, turn signals would have set you back a whole $16 and if you wanted hubcaps, you'd have to shell out $21.
In another building there were vintage cars dating back to the 1916-1930 years.  The mannequin reminded me of Al Capone and Elliot Ness.  
Just remember that the next time you go out to purchase a new vehicle, that Miss America says Nash Ramber is a real sweetheart!

2 comments:

  1. I was born in Kenosha! My family worked at the American Motors plant! We moved to AZ in 1956, driving out in our two-tone blue Nash Ambassador.

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    1. That last comment was from Pat😁

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