Superiors: Rare Collection of Superior Cars

Perhaps some of the most beautiful and graceful vehicles ever created, the hearse, or funeral coach, has always seemed to get a bad rap. People seeing them drive by get chills and look away. It may be because hearses remind us of death. The last ride that we will ever take on earth.

But I see them very differantly. Hearses have a grace about them. With their dark color, draped windows, scrolls and long bodies, they omit a sense of dignity and beauty. Most pre 1970 hearses were hand-built. Creations of a coach company that would take the chassis and drivetrain from an auto manufacturer and extend it, then drop their own body and interior onto it.

Interiors were made of imported woods, velvet and satin in many colors then casket rollers were installed. The car was designed by the undertaker in many instances. Perhaps the greatest interest I have in hearses is the fact that most of them were one-of-a-kind. No two were completely alike. This is why when I see an old hearse or ambulance rotting away somewhere, I get a sick feeling. These automobiles are the rareist of the rare.

So sit back and enjoy these pictures. If you have any interest in old hearses you should get some satisfaction in knowing that, at least these have survived.