Sometimes, a car is more than just a car. For Gene and Pam Lowery, their 2001 PT Cruiser has become a rolling testament to patriotism, family legacy and the enduring American spirit. What started as a “plain Jane silver” PT Cruiser has evolved into something extraordinary – a memorial that’s traveled from Dallas to Dover, Augustine to Kansas City, touching hearts and preserving and instilling memories along the way.
The transformation began in the wake of September 11, 2001. “We made a tribute to 9/11 because of all the people lost and their families,” Gene explains. The reasons for building this car can be traced even further back than that September morning. Pam’s brother, a Vietnam veteran who served two tours and survived being shot down, passed away at 56 due to complications from his service. Their father’s twin brother was lost to friendly fire in World War II. These personal connections to service and sacrifice helped shape what would become known as the “Patriot Cruiser.”
The car has an interesting origin story – it was the first PT Cruiser to cross into Alabama. “They sent one to each state as a promotional car and rotated it around to different dealerships,” Gene recalls. These demo cars weren’t meant for sale, but they managed to secure this piece of automotive history through persistence and serendipity. It was produced in May 2000 but purchased in January 2001, when PT Cruisers commanded $5,000 to $8,000 over sticker price.
Over the years, the Patriot Cruiser has evolved into a rolling art piece. In 2019, renowned pinstriper and airbrush artist Michael Swan added custom murals, transforming the exterior into a moving memorial. The modifications aren’t just skin deep – the car sports a custom front end from PTS in Santa Ana, California, custom roll pans and a unique hood. Inside, you’ll find a two-tone leather interior with a five-speed manual transmission.
The PT Cruiser community itself has surprised the Lowerys with its international reach. They’ve forged friendships with enthusiasts from Jacksonville to Canada and even met PT Cruiser fans from France who crossed the Atlantic to attend car shows. This unexpected network of connections has enriched their lives far beyond what they imagined when they first purchased the car.
But perhaps the most remarkable aspect of this PT Cruiser isn’t its modifications or even its memorial status – it’s the role it’s played in the Lowery family. Each of their five grandchildren has had a special rite of passage with the car: they each get a week-long road trip in the PT Cruiser at age five. “Every trip has wrapped up with a car show,” Pam adds with a smile. Then, at age ten, they get another weekend adventure. Their oldest granddaughter’s connection runs especially deep – they brought her home from the hospital in this very car.
These shows have brought more than just trophies. One particularly memorable moment came when their granddaughter Catherine, attending a PT Cruiser-only show at age five, had to be prepared for the possibility of not winning. “Baby, there’s lots and lots of nice cars here,” Gene cautioned. “Granddaddy might not get anything.” After collecting four trophies that day, including best in class and best interior, little Catherine turned around and declared, “Granddaddy, I told you we had the best car!”
After 24 years and 131,000 miles, the Patriot Cruiser has never seen a trailer – it drives to every show. The original clutch is still going strong, a testament to careful ownership and regular maintenance. The only major work has been routine: air conditioning service, a power steering pump at 90,000 miles and preventative timing belt replacement. For a car driven across the country multiple times, it’s an impressive testament to Chrysler’s engineering and diligent maintenance.
Though not all conversations are easy, the car has become a conversation starter wherever it goes. When questioned about the patriotic display being “politically incorrect,” their response is simple yet profound: “Why would it not be?” As Gene notes, “I love my country. I know there’s a lot of problems now, but you’ve got to show some appreciation.”
Today, the Patriot Cruiser continues its mission of remembrance, serving as a bridge between generations and a reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedom. It’s expanded the Lowerys’ world, introducing them to fellow enthusiasts nationwide and internationally. Their PT Cruiser stands as something far more meaningful than just transportation – it’s a family heirloom, a patriotic statement and a reminder that the most unexpected vehicles can carry the most important messages, one mile at a time.
In a world where cars increasingly become disposable commodities, the Lowerys’ PT Cruiser proves that with the right combination of purpose and passion, even a humble economy car can transcend its original purpose to become something truly extraordinary.
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