1908 Sears Motor Buggy: Still in the Original Family and Still Running

Jon Mertes of Onawa, Iowa bought the Sears Motor Buggy 107 years ago. It has outlived two generations of owners and now belongs to the grandson of its original purchaser. The Motor Buggy still runs, and apart from an engine repair and a new set of tires, is in completely original condition. When Ken Mertes drives it, he is using 107-year-old brakes!

An estimated 3500 customers ordered a Sears car between 1908 and 1912.  The car could either be picked up at the Chicago factory, or delivered by rail, which is how Jon Mertes got his.  According to the family, this was the 39th car built that first year.  When notified that it was at the train station, they had to hitch up the horses to the wagon and go get it, then assemble it when they got it home.  It 's been going strong ever since.

Hat tip: Maggie's Farm