The Timeless Journey of the 1939 Packard Henney Hearse
An Elegant Beginning
In the heart of Rochester, Minnesota, a striking 1939 Packard Henney hearse rolled into the F.J. Paine Funeral Home on July 1, 1939. Its sleek, elegant design embodied a blend of beauty and function, making it one of the finest examples of early automotive craftsmanship. The hearse served faithfully, a silent witness to the lives it honored, until 1967 when it was gently retired and stored in a heated garage at the rear of the funeral home.
During World War II, when gas rationing challenged daily operations, the hearse underwent a transformation. Lights, a siren, and a stretcher holder were installed, allowing it to access gasoline, when necessary, as an ambulance. Despite these modifications, the hearse saw little action as an ambulance, preserving its dignity and original charm for decades.
In December 2005, Mark Shea of Hanson-Walbridge Funeral Home in Bennington, Vermont, acquired the hearse from Cedric Paine, the original owner. Transported carefully on a trailer, the hearse began its new journey. In the spring of 2006, it underwent meticulous refurbishment. The carburetor, fuel pump, and gas tank were rejuvenated, new fuel lines were installed, and after a brief moment of uncertainty, the engine roared to life, running smoothly once again.
A Return to Service
With its brake lines replaced and wheels sandblasted and powder-coated, the hearse was ready to grace the roads once more. By August 2006, it was back in service at the funeral home, a testament to its timeless elegance and enduring functionality. Except for a rebuilt water pump, the hearse remained completely original, a cherished option for those seeking a touch of nostalgia.
Years later, Greg Rollings acquired the hearse along with the funeral homes, relocating it to South Carolina. There, it continued to serve with grace, participating in funerals and car shows, admired by all who appreciated its historical significance and unyielding beauty.
A Legacy Preserved
In November of 2024, after years of searching, Chase Ridgeway was awarded the opportunity to purchase the hearse from Greg Rollings. His love for vintage cars, a passion passed down from his late grandfather, fueled his desire to add the hearse to Ridgeway Funeral Home's livery service. It became an option for families who cherished the elegance and nostalgia of a bygone era.
The 1939 Packard Henney hearse stands as a living testament to the elegance and craftsmanship of a bygone era. Its presence at funerals, parades, and car shows draws attention, captivating onlookers with its timeless beauty and rarity. Each outing transforms into a showcase of history, as the hearse glides through town, turning heads and sparking conversations among those who appreciate vintage automotive artistry.
In the Spotlight
Funerals: As part of the Ridgeway Funeral Home's livery service, the hearse continues to serve with dignity and grace, offering families a unique opportunity to honor their loved ones with a touch of classic elegance.
Parades: The hearse often graces local parades, where its majestic presence and historical significance are celebrated by the community. It serves as a reminder of the past, bringing a sense of nostalgia to these festive occasions.
Car Shows: Enthusiasts and history buffs alike flock to car shows where the 1939 Packard Henney hearse is displayed. It stands as a crowd favorite, admired for its original features and the story it tells of resilience and transformation through the decades.
Around Town: On occasion, the hearse is seen cruising through town, a moving exhibition of vintage luxury. Its distinctive design and rare status make it a cherished sight, inspiring admiration and awe from those lucky enough to witness it in motion.
In every appearance, this hearse offers more than just a glimpse into the past; it provides a connection to history, a celebration of timeless beauty, and a tribute to the enduring allure of classic Americana design. Embodied with a blend of beauty and function, making it one of the finest examples of early automotive craftsmanship. The hearse serves faithfully, a silent witness to the lives it has honored and to those it will continue to honor for generations to come.
