Wagons are so “in” – and for good reason

There was a day, not long ago, when being seen in a station wagon was, well – uncool, odd – even queer. Which isn’t to say – gay, just “not cool”. However, so few of us have a memory that ISNT full of rides in the back of the family “wagon”. Many of us recall, oddly but fondly, facing oncoming traffic in the “way back” seat – waving blissfully at the motorists – and feeling relatively safe doing so. Never mind that a rear end collision would have catapulted us into oncoming traffic lick a human cannonball. Our parents didn’t seem to mind either – our grandparents were ever so happy to not have us squirming next to them, and we – well – we fought for the privilege of being in the “death seat”.

I’m reminded of those good ole days – now, with our recent purchase of a beautiful 1959 Nash Rambler Greenbriar Super Wagon. An economy wagon in the truest sense, it has no third seat and, in fact, no carpet in the “cargo” area at all. None the less, there I was bouncing around this claustrophobic metal coffin hitting the roof with every pothole, manhole cover or railroad track. And while driving, my father, seems to enjoy finding all of these road impediments. Imagine watching your child, in mid air, from your rear view mirror – bouncing down the diver laden road. Now you get the sense of why these wagons were so popular to our parents.

I couldn’t resist adding her to our collection. Her colors, light and dark green, remind us of how colorful and bold the late 50′s cars were. I normally would not take a liking to a green car but looking at the pictures, you might agree, she is very attractive.

The Nash Rambler design has roots by Pinin Farina – and is very art deco. Of course, at first glance, you ask yourself  - how did you change a tire when flat? We still are not sure – having no need to do so yet. But no matter, she is sexy in a Kirstie Alley sort of way. Plump but sexy – from certain angles and elegant in an evening dress – of light and dark green.

Paul J Burt