My Favorites: Jody Reeme

When Jody Reeme ’01 MS purchased her first classic car, a 1939 Ford De Luxe Fordor Sedan, she expected it to be a one-off. Sure, she had always been interested in classic cars — Reeme grew up in Detroit, shares a birthday with Henry Ford and loved playing with slot cars as a kid — but she didn’t expect to wind up with a collection of almost a dozen vehicles. Last summer, Reeme took her 1924 Dodge Brothers Roadster on a cross-country trip, driving 2,200 miles from Oregon to Illinois to raise awareness for the RPM Foundation, a group that supports restoration, preservation and mentorship programs for the next generation of automotive, motorcycle and marine craftspeople. After almost two months on the road — the Roadster’s max speed is a little more than 40 miles per hour — Reeme was glad to be back home in Wilmette, Ill., where she lives with her husband, Steve Albertson, and son, Peder. But she also says that the trip “restored my faith in people and our capacity for generosity and kindness.” After her journey, Reeme says the Roadster will always be one of her favorite cars, but here are a few others that she loves.

1930 Ford Model A Speedster

“Speedsters are special cars, and the Model A is one of the most iconic and fun to drive.”

1939 Ford De Luxe Fordor

“It was our first purchase and has a special place in our hearts: My husband and I call it our first grandchild. The car has classic styling and is still very roadworthy with its flathead V8 engine and hydraulic brakes.”

1950 Studebaker Champion Starlight Coupe

“It was our second purchase, and the car brings a smile to the face of everyone who sees it.”