The Dishman CJ-3A “Old Reliable”

Our Willys was purchased by Grandpa Dishman as soon as it was possible to get one in Montana–circa 1950/51.  It packed many elk, deer, and antelope (probably a bear too) back to camp or to the homestead.  It was a grouse hunting, fishing jeep for many years and Dishman generations.  
After Grandpa Dishman passed, daughter-in-law Granny Dishman inherited and the little jeep became a substitute tractor with a homemade wagon/trailer for homestead chores and “the Old Reliable” in the harsh winters.  Soon to follow were the many youngsters of the family, and Roger (the youngest boy) and the jeep became a pair.  The jeep spent many hours in the mountains being a safe conveyance and during high school even gained a set of over-sized tires for a time.  The jeep stayed at Granny’s house for many years until 1995 when the jeep moved to the Cokedale Ranch with Roger and his family. Rogers’ daughters had spent many a winter being pulled behind the jeep in a sled and grew up with the jeep being one of the first vehicles they learned to drive.
When the youngest Dishman daughter was planning her wedding, the jeep had to be her “Chariot” for the event.  So many stories are held in this small jeep that is huge in the family heart.  All the grandkids love to spend time in it – the jeep has the carport while our everyday vehicles sit out in the weather! 
The jeep has been featured in Christmas photos of the visiting grand babies … they all are waiting their turn to spend their own quality time with her!  This little Jeep is our family treasure and will continue to be shared by all – as all special jeeps should be!

Kaiser Willys Jeep Blog Story – Roger Dishman

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