Gun-toting grandma puts half-a-million miles on her 1964 Chariot

Rachel Veitch's life was defined by a unique love story—not with a person, but with a car. Her 1964 Mercury Comet Caliente, affectionately named Chariot, was more than just a vehicle; it was a steadfast companion on the road of life. Together, they traveled over 540,000 miles, creating memories that would last a lifetime, as reported by GrowingBolder.

Rachel was born on August 8, 1918, in Erie, Pennsylvania, and she led a remarkable life filled with charm, adventure, and resilience. In 1964, she purchased Chariot brand new, complete with power steering, automatic transmission, and air conditioning, for $3,289.30. From the moment she drove Chariot off the lot, Rachel knew they were destined for a long journey together.

"She's never lied to me, never cheated on me, and I can always depend on her," Rachel once said about Chariot. This loyalty outlasted even her three marriages. Over the years, Rachel put every one of the 540,000 miles on Chariot’s original engine, a testament to both her dedication and her clever use of warranties.

Rachel had a knack for ensuring Chariot remained in top condition without breaking the bank. She frequently purchased parts with lifetime warranties. "This was the fifth muffler, lifetime guaranteed. I've had seven," she explained. From shocks to batteries, Rachel made the most of every guarantee, securing 16 free batteries from J.C. Penney over the years, installed by Firestone .

Rachel's independence was as notable as her mechanical skills. At 89, she still drove Chariot on solo trips, including a 3,225-mile journey to her 70th high school reunion in Pennsylvania. "I go when I please and do as I please," she declared. Fear never accompanied Rachel on her adventures, even though she was a woman traveling alone in an old car. "I took the classes. I have the concealed carry weapons permit," she would say, showing the gun she kept for protection.

Back at home, Rachel enjoyed teaching impromptu classes in auto mechanics, proudly displaying Chariot's components like the generator, power steering, air conditioner, and cruise control. Her knowledge and enthusiasm inspired many, proving that age was no barrier to pursuing one's passions.

As she aged, Rachel's concerns for Chariot's future grew. Her daughter once remarked, "We'd soon be burying my mother" if anything happened to Chariot. To ensure her beloved car's legacy, Rachel arranged for Chariot to find a home in a museum in Wisconsin, where it could be appreciated for years to come.

Rachel passed away a few years ago, leaving behind a rich legacy of love, adventure, and resilience. She was a dedicated nurse, a Registered National Parliamentarian, and an active member of various organizations, including the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Colonial Dames of the 17th Century. Her surviving family includes her daughters, Dawn L. Veitch and Rebecca P. Stewart.

Rachel's story is a beautiful reminder that love can take many forms. Her devotion to Chariot and their countless adventures together reflect a life well-lived, full of passion and perseverance. As Chariot rests in a museum, Rachel's spirit of adventure and her remarkable journey live on, inspiring others to cherish the roads they travel and the companions they keep.

This article was originally published in June 2024. It has since been updated.