Jim Carpenter drove his restored 1954 Dodge Regent from Peachland to Maple Ridge for his 50th high school reunion, celebrating a lifetime of memories.
A Journey 50 Years in the Making
When Jim Carpenter rolled up to his 50th high school reunion in 2025, it wasn’t just any grand entrance—it was a drive straight from the past. Behind the wheel of his gleaming 1954 Dodge Regent, Carpenter wasn’t just revisiting his old school in Maple Ridge; he was reliving five decades of stories, family history, and love for classic cars.
From Rust to Revival
It all started in 1975, when a determined high school senior named Jim decided to breathe life back into a weathered family relic. While most teens dreamed of new wheels, Carpenter had his sights set on restoring the old Dodge that had been sitting in his family’s yard for years.
His shop teacher tried to talk him out of it—suggesting a running car could be bought for $100. But Carpenter wasn’t swayed. With nothing but grit, curiosity, and a bit of mechanical know-how, he rolled up his sleeves and got to work.
That summer, he managed to fix the brakes, patch up the motor, and repair the body. By graduation, the once-forgotten Dodge was back on the road—and Carpenter proudly drove it to his ceremony.
A Family Treasure on Four Wheels
The Dodge Regent wasn’t just a car—it was a part of the Carpenter family’s story. Originally bought by Jim’s grandmother in 1960 for her commute to Mission, she had one special request: it had to have turn signals, an optional feature back then.
Over the years, the car ferried the family to countless lakes—Alouette, Pitt, and Stave—often towing a boat behind it. From family road trips to smoky misadventures (like the time his mom forgot to release the handbrake and filled the air with smoke), every mile carried a memory.
More Than a Car—A Lifetime Companion
Since those high school days, Carpenter has taken the Dodge everywhere—from Alaska to Tofino. It’s been there for his wedding, his children’s first rides home, and even his volunteer work with Meals on Wheels.
“It’s kind of unheard of for that kind of car, and motor, and timeframe,” he said with a laugh.
Now 68, Carpenter admits the car shaped more than his travels—it shaped his career. Inspired by his passion for classic cars, he left his job at Telus to start his own car parts business. He’s also been a proud member of the Vintage Car Club of Canada’s Golden Ears Chapter for nearly half a century.
A Classic That Keeps Rolling
Despite its age, the Dodge remains largely original. Aside from a few minor tweaks—a second fuel pump and a bit of extra power—it’s still the same car that rolled off the line in 1954.
“Most people would look at it and think you wouldn’t leave town with that,” Carpenter joked. “But it’s simple, reliable, and I can fix just about anything on it.”
The Road Ahead
For Jim Carpenter, the drive from Peachland to Maple Ridge wasn’t just about showing off a vintage car. It was about honoring his family, his roots, and the countless miles that shaped his journey.
And as the sun set on his 50th reunion, the hum of that old Dodge Regent reminded everyone watching that some engines—and some memories—never really stop running.
Stay updated instantly — follow us on Instagram | Facebook | X
