Devoted to the auto industry – builders to enthusiasts

Writtten By BRUCE ALDRICH

I remember the first car I learned to drive. In fact, I own that 1959 Beetle that my sisters and I first learned in. My dad bought it new in 1958. I have the original cancelled check and window sticker. My dad kept every imaginable record on that car. It was his daily driver through 2005.  He put over a half million miles on it.

When he turned 81 he decided he needed the luxury of air conditioning, so he switched cars, leaving the Beetle for me. I smile every time I walk out to the garage and see it. My sisters and I grew up in that car. I used to ride behind the back seat when I was young. My two sisters sat in the back seat, mom and dad up front. We went to Folsom Lake, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, the American River and everywhere in between. 

I've been sprucing up the Beetle here and there, so I've opened up every nook and cranny. I discovered some pieces of a forgotten toy called Monkey Grips. My sisters and I would pass the miles by interlocking the plastic pieces to form monkey bars and swings. I found an old can opener in the driver's side pocket. It was a "Lucky Lager" opener with the etched statement: "It's great to live in America".

My dad and I have kept the car bone stock. I don't want to change a thing. Yep, it's still 6 volts. Driving it is a treat. All sorts of people come up to the car to admire it and tell me their Beetle story. I think I'll take it to some car gatherings to let others enjoy it. It seems to have something about it that evokes smiles and good memories.

My great nephews are just about 1 year old right now. I'll be waiting to give them driving lessons. I have the perfect car. I'm proud of that old car and I'm proud of my dad.