SS-100-X was the Secret Service code name for the modified 1961 Lincoln Continental convertible built as the presidential limousine for John F. Kennedy. Lengthened by coachbuilder Hess & Eisenhardt of Cincinnati and fitted with removable roof panels and a rear seat that could be raised, it was designed for parades in which crowds could see the president. It was the car in which Kennedy was riding in Dallas on November 22, 1963. Afterward, it was rebuilt with armor and a permanent roof and remained in service for more than a decade. It is now displayed at The Henry Ford museum.

At a glance
Base 1961 Lincoln Continental four-door convertible
Modified by Hess & Eisenhardt, Cincinnati
Code name SS-100-X
Features Lengthened body, removable roof panels, raisable rear seat
After 1963 Rebuilt with armor and a fixed roof
Location today The Henry Ford, Dearborn, Michigan

Designed to be seen

The early 1960s presidential car was built for visibility. Its transparent and removable roof sections allowed it to be used open or closed. The rear seat could be raised so the president was more visible to crowds, and there were steps and handholds for agents.

November 22, 1963

The car carried President Kennedy, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, Texas Governor John Connally and Nellie Connally through Dealey Plaza in Dallas when the president was assassinated. The tragedy changed presidential security permanently.

The rebuild

Rather than retire the car, the government had it rebuilt with armor plating, bullet-resistant glass and a permanent roof, and it was repainted black. It continued to serve presidents until the late 1970s.

Its influence

After Dallas, presidential limousines became closed, armored vehicles — a trend that culminates in today’s Beast. Read presidential limousine history and The Beast.

The Continental design

The 1961 Continental itself is one of the most admired American designs, with clean lines and rear-hinged rear doors. Read the Lincoln Continental history.