January-February 2016 Volume: 5, Number: 1, Issue: 23
1934 Covered Wagon A Museum Quality Restoration That Respects the Era’s Classic Style The magazine for all vintage camper trailer collectors, restorers, admirers and dreamers.
RESCUE
R E S TO R E
R A L LY
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What our customers have to say about us
We picked up a 62 Shasta trailer and the side looked like a kid took a stick to the side of it. It was bad. We brought the skin to Hemet Valley RV and they Made a new peice. The Bottom skin is new and the top skin was old, but they look identical. It had 6 inch lines and it turned out perfect. Thanks Guys. Great job. -Barry
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Located in Hemet, California, we offer a wide variety of RV siding and camper siding for a variety of vintage camper trailers. Our panels and products are ideal when it comes to completing seamless repairs to siding, roofing and edging on your vehicle. Hemet Valley RV guarantees to deliver the results that you expect right to your door.
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Five Star Plus!!! Steve and his company demonstrate what customer service should look like. Thanks so much! -Glenn I recently purchased all of the siding,trim and entry door for an 1970 11’ foot trailer that I rebuilt using only the metal frame of the original trailer. I contacted Steve at Hemet Valley RV and sent him a side view of the trailer with the dimensions on it. Steve figured out what material I needed and the amount and sent it. Everything that I needed I received in a timely fashion and it was packaged in very strong boxes...Thanks so much for the great job Steve, I have no doubt that your business will have continued success, Great Job. -Wayne M.
Extensive knowledge and quality materials. Very fair pricing and quick turn around time. Steve and Tammy are always helpful. -Larry
Vintage Camper Trailers the Book Coming in the Spring of 2016 The Lacitinola’s:
Caroline, Paul, G
race and Angelo.
- 1948 Trailercra
ft
We have met hundreds of the greatest friends because of the vintage camper trailers hobby. In getting to know so many folks we have discovered that this craziness attracts people from all walks of life. We compiled over 200 pages of pictures and the stories of some of the trailerites that rescue, restore and rally with us. Available from us, on Amazon and in bookstores 5/17/16.
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Inside This Issue
Covered Wagons pgs. 6-15 Electric Brakes pg. 20 Articles Mid 20th Century Pop Culture Pictorials Covered Wagon by Flyte Camp Behind the Scenes with Flippin RV’s 1963 Aladdin- In Loving Memory 1950’s Caddy Camper and a B17 Bomber 1952 Chevy Pick-up Camper-Steve McQueen 1968 Cardinal Deluxe 1972 Lark Rusty Ritz
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Publisher Paul Lacitinola
6-15 11 16 18 22 26 34
Editors Caroline Lacitinola Nancy Veal
Rallies Buellton CA Camp Crawdad Camp Out
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Technical and How-To Replacing Electric Brakes Trailer Couplers-Replacing Yours
20 30
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Rusty Ritz pg.34
Contributers to This Issue George Garza Cheryl deVoss Tim Haworth Watt “Orbie” Mungall Swanee Owens Dale Godfrey USA Rally Calendar-41
American Trailerite By Paul Lacitinola Publisher VCT Magazine
Volume: 5 - Number: 1 - Issue: 23 PO Box 354, Elverta CA 95626 (916) 572-8554 www.vintagecampertrailers.com vintagecampertrailers@gmail.com Publisher: Paul Lacitinola American Trailerite The VCT Magazine is published bi-monthly January, March, May, July, September & November. “I would rather wake up in the middle of nowhere than in any city on earth.” -Steve McQueen Vintage Camper Trailers is a non-denominational supporter of the vintage camper trailer hobby. We welcome all collectors, restorers, admirers and dreamers. Subscribe Today - See page 40 for details.
Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine reserves the exclusive right to reject or accept advertising or editorial material submitted for publication. The editorial content contained in this magazine does not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine (USPS Publication Number 15940) is published bimonthly (in January, March, May, July, September, November) by Vintage Camper Trailers, 8416 Elwyn Avenue, Elverta, CA 95626-9552. Periodical postage paid at Elverta, CA and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Vintage Camper Trailers, PO Box 354, Elverta, CA 95626-0354.
WE BUY Vintage Camper Trailers, Bicycles, Cars, and Pick-Ups. (916) 992-1427
I’m writing this column at the end of December. I am already feeling the itch to get to a rally in the spring! As 2015 comes to an end I am able to take a minute to reflect on all of the things we have been able to accomplish this year because of the vintage camper trailer hobby, the people we are surrounded by and this magazine. The Trailerfest Rally 2015- 250 trailers in Lodi, CA in October. 2016 is 85% sold-out with attendees from last year! Register now at www.trailerfest rally. com. (Page 44) Camping In Style Museum Display- We were honored to be asked to consult on the display and assemble a variety of trailers that pay tribute to the hobby. (Page 40) Vintage Camper Trailers The Book- Our first, but hopefully not our last book has been final proofed and is at the printer! Available in the spring of 2016 from us, on Amazon and in bookstores. Boot Camp- We pulled the trigger and scheduled our first Boot Camp trailer restoration training weekend! Almost immediately we sold over 50% of the tickets! (See ad on page 3) Along with all of that we filmed a couple of episodes with Flippin RV’s. One with our 1948 Vagabond at Modernism Week in Palm Springs, CA and another in Sweet Home, OR where we covered the unveiling of the 1934 Covered Wagon trailer featured in this issue. Google used our 1957 Terry to shoot a TV commercial and we continue to add to our collection with a barn find all original 1960 Ideal (look for it in an upcoming issue of the magazine) and our current project, a 1961 Streamline. In 2016 we want to add another event to the calendar. Plans are in the works to hold the Worlds Biggest Trailer Rally! Our goal is to have an event that can accommodate EVERYBODY that wants to can come. So many rallies are limited to how many attendees can come, by how many camp sites they have. Rallies sell-out and people that want to be involved in the hobby can’t. We want to change that. We are finalizing a venue in Northern CA for the first weekend in June. Stay tuned for details.
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1934 Covered Wagon
A Museum Quality Restoration That Respects the Era’s Classic Style by Caroline Lacitinola
J
ustin and Anna Scribner have been rescuing and restoring trailers since the late 1990’s when Justin found their first 1958 Shasta Airflyte to restore for their own personal use. In 2010, due to a turn in the economy and the building industry, Justin and Anna put their heads together and opened Flyte Camp Trailer Restoration in Bend, OR. The Scribner’s attraction to the vintage trailer styling, and Justin’s background as a builder, seemed to make it a natural fit. Over the years Flyte Camp has become known for their ground up restorations of vintage camper trailers. They are able to maintain the vintage feel of the coaches while upgrading them with hidden modern amenities. The Scribners are also the hosts of the TV show “Flippin RVs” on the Great American Country channel. The show is about their restoration business, the trailers they buy and sell, and the people and trailers they visit while attending rallies. This past year, the RV/MH Hall of Fame in Elkhart, Indiana had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Justin and Anna. The museum had two trailers that were duplicates to trailers already on display. The
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duplicate trailers were being stored in a donated facility off-site of the museum. Following the owner’s death, the family needed to sell the storage facility and the trailers needed to find a new home. The Scribners jumped at the chance to visit the museum and were able to spend some time touring the RV/ MH Hall of Fame looking at the trailers on display. Following their tour, the museum President, Darryl Searer, took them to the storage facility. (Anna later told me that every trailer looks awesome when you look at it in the dusky light of an old barn.) Justin and Anna were able to see enough to decide they wanted to buy the 1934 Covered Wagon and the 1940 New Moon trailer. Both were tandem axle trailers which is a design less commonly
found in pre-war survivor trailers. A deal was made and the trailers were transported on a flatbed 1,788 miles from the Midwest to the Pacific Northwest. Once the trailers arrived at their shop, Justin and Anna unwrapped the Covered Wagon and for the first time were able to fully see what they had bought. Looking closely at the trailer, they realized that the Covered Wagon was going to need a full restoration. The Scribners were up for the job and got right to work. Justin said that he realized this was a piece of history that needed to be preserved in such a way that it respected the trailer’s history. The first step in the restoration project was cleaning the dirt and grime off of the unmolested Covered Wagon and taking inventory of what needed to be restored and what could be preserved. All of the interior 110 electrical wiring was re-wired and the plumbing was replaced. Flyte Camp restored the original hand pumps in the kitchen and bathroom sinks and also added modern faucets to make the trailer more usable at modern day campgrounds. They were able to preserve the original floor, hot plate and leaded glass in the galley cabinets, as well as the intricate 1930’s hardware on the doors and cupboards. The Flyte Camp crew restored the original wood burning stove and added some safety and decorative pieces. The brass heat
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shield behind the fireplace showcases some of the team’s creative solutions to restoring vintage camper trailers. Anna was able to find fabric for the couch and curtains that represent the era of the trailer and give it a real feel of vintage elegance. The exterior of the 1934 Covered Wagon is covered with leatherette siding and has a period correct canvas top that mimics the unique construction method that was originally used. (Leatherette is an imitation leather product commonly used in the marine industry.) This was the first time Justin and his team at Flyte Camp had worked with this material. Justin was a bit concerned with how it would turn out, but was excited to learn something new in the trailer restoration business. After the process was complete, Justin shared with me that it was his favorite part of the Covered Wagon restoration. We met up with friends Justin and Anna at the Sweet Home, Oregon Rolling Oldies Vintage Camper Trailer Rally to see the completed restoration of the 1934 Covered Wagon. The Covered Wagon is a real time capsule and a beautiful piece of history. As they revealed the restoration to us, the conversation kept coming back to the ingenuity of the builders in 1934. From the jack that was built into the trailer body with a detachable hand crank (reminiscent of the hand crank starters on early 1930’s cars) to the lightweight tongue made of spring steel, this trailer speaks of a time of growth and ingenuity in manufacturing in America. The careful restoration and respect this trailer was given by Flyte Camp ensures it will be enjoyed for generations to come.
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The trailers original stove top and leaded glass cabinets. Left: the dinette, at the rear of the trailer, folds down to convert in to the bedroom.
Looking through to the rear of the trailer you can see the dinette that converts in to the bed. Above Left: A view of the dinette. Left: This commode is tucked away in the door on the right side in the photo above.
The original sink featuring it’s original hand pump fixture on one side and a modern water faucet on the other side. Anna’s decorating touches represent the era of the trailer and give it a real feel of vintage elegance.
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SHERMAN’S 1933 COVERED WAGON By Doug Huse
Shortly after the RV/MH Heritage Foundation was formed in March 1972, the Foundation honored the inaugural class of inductees into the RV/MH Hall of Fame. Since that time over 300 industry pioneers and leaders have joined the elite group. The RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum in Elkhart, Indiana has a rotating display of 75 vintage camper trailers. The Hall of Fame is “dedicated to preserving the history and honoring the pioneers and individuals who have made significant contributions to the RV and Manufactured Housing industries.” If you go to the museum you can expect to see several one-of-a-kind trailers. Their earliest trailer is a 1913 Earl Trailer being pulled by a 1913 Model T Ford. This last month the personal trailer of Charles Lindberg was donated to the museum as well.
The 1933 Covered Wagon was the first assembly line trailer made in America. There were 189 trailers made by Covered Wagon Co. of Mt. Clements, MI in 1933. Only two examples are known today, serial numbers 814 and 877 on file. The Covered Wagon Company in a few short years ended “Auto Camping” that was popular throughout the 1920’s. Founder Arthur Sherman was granted a patent in 1932 for “Camping Trailer”. After the patent model and revisions in 1932 which included a sheet metal exterior, he begun to lay out an assembly line for his ‘33 model based on the Henry Ford plant a few miles away. Arthur also owned several boats and crafted many boat features into his designs. By 1936, the Covered Wagon Co was the largest travel trailer manufacture in the U.S. In 1939 Arthur Sherman was experiencing the Great Depression. During WWII the Covered Wagon Co made trucks parts and closed business in l946. That year aluminum trailers made by Curtis Wright, Spartan, Hawley Bowlus, Wally Byam’s Airstream, all associated with aircraft designs of WW II, put an end to Masonite and canvas box like trailers.
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1913 Earl Trailer and Model T Ford
Courtesy of Wade Thompson, Thor Ind. Believed to be the oldest non-tent travel trailer in existence. Custom built for a Cal Tech professor. The vintage camper trailer hobby is fortunate to have a museum with the same mission many of us share. We all want to see these trailers being preserved for the next generations. http://www.rvmhhalloffame.org
Behind the Scenes... You can find the Flippin RV’s TV show on The Great American Country Channel
It takes a small army of camera, sound, lighting, producers etc. to produce each episode of Flippin RV’s. Justin and Anna Scribner speak to Caroline on and off camera about this project, their restoration business and the second season of their TV show Flippin RV’s.
Paul and Caroline Lacitinola filming an episode of Flippin RV’s in Oregon with the Scribners.
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The Covered Wagon Compiled by Doug Huse
1929 Sherman constructs a prototype 9x6x5’ “Box on Wheels” after an uncomfortable rainy camping experience with a Clare Tent Trailer. Has a wooden trailer hitch with oak ball. A garage style setup becomes his factory for the next four years.
1930 Sherman displays at the Detroit Auto Show in January. Takes orders beginning with double canvas and late year uses a fabric cover. Rear Door Drop floor and steel cover used through ‘32. Sherman files for a US Patent.
1931 Sells 117/118 units at $385, Masonite siding. Patent Granted for “Camping Trailer”. CW is first registered RV Trailer in State of NY by Lake George Schroon Valley Resort.
1932 Sells 80 Units at $400. New exterior construction is sheet metal siding, wood front and Victorian style tall window in wood back. Drop floor design. Interior layout not interrupted by a side door which gives a more spacious feeling with a table/booth. Fairly rich interiors designed from Sherman’s yachting experiences. Has wide bar tongue hitch and flat spring system. Improved quality including rubberized (short line) top cover. Referred to as “crude-looking like boxes” Only Serial number 594 documented.
1933 Sells 189 Units with side door, large double front windows, double sided canvas on wood. Table booth eliminated for bunk beds sleeping four. Drop floor eliminated. Nice cabin interior continues. Two ¾ steel bars overlapping for hitch, steel ball, rubberized top, contoured tire well. #’s 814 & 877 known.
Doug Huse is the author of Animanikin, the true story of one man’s obsession of manufacturing an unusual, lifelike, entertaining advertising gimmick for his shoe repair stores in the mid 30’s. Years of re-discovery and restoration was undertaken by Huse, a collector, who had first seen the Animanikin as a young boy in 1950. One will make an appearance at Pismo Beach in May. Google Animanikin to find a copy. Sources the information here: Tin Can Tourist, Clements Library, Detroit Historical Society, Henry Ford Museum, RV Museum Elkhart IL., Interviews with David Woodworth, Collector and Historian, Galloping Bungalows by Thornburg, The Trailer For Pleasure And Business by Kimball/Larned, LIFE Magazine 1936, Sarasota Herald 1932,The Great Depression in America and US Patent Office. dr.huse@att.net
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1934 Increases production with 320 units. Design change to a “prow” front roof line lasting many years, with modifications. “Sarasota Herald & Mt. Clements Library”. Sherman completes move to larger facilities in Mt. Clemens and develops a Henry Ford type assembly line.
Covered Wagons served as rolling billboards to companies as well as rolling warehouses and quarters for traveling salesmen.
1935 Sells 400 “Deluxe” 15 ft. trailers with a total output of 1134 Trailers. “Pioneers in Field”-1936. Some 1935 Model- A single axle version of Deluxe exteriors are the trailer restored by the Scribners. leather. 1936 Selling 35 units/day, 17’-500 employees, plant time 24/7, Popular Culture magazine 1939 quotes 1100 employees, $3M in sales. Leather exterior. Pre Fab Homes trade magazine in 2005 quotes 6000 units/year; then financial difficulties. Sherman pre-orders hundreds of 6 foot axles when other trailer manufactures expanded their width to 8 feet. Sales dropped and depression woes set in.
1937-47 Slow sales, minor interior changes, same design construction but will steel sides. Scarce PR/Press in ‘39. From 1942 through ’45, Sherman makes truck parts for the war effort. With union problems, a lockout, bankruptcy with reorganization, and a shortage of materials, Sherman closes shop.
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The Covered Wagon
Doug Huses personal trailer. A 1933 Covered wagon. Thanks to Doug for the wealth of information he has saved.
This is what it would have looked like going down the road in the late 1930’s.
The story goes that the trailer was owned by a horse farm in northern Michigan. The farm used the trailer at horse shows as a place to entertain guests and to take a rest from the days activities. The trailer was kept in the barn when not being used and was said to have never been camped in by the owners. At some point it was acquired by the Shelburn Museum in Vermont where it was on display for a period of time. As museums do, from time to time, they decided to sell it to a vintage car dealer in Temperance, MI.
new and never to have been used. The trailer sleeps 4 and has a bathroom with a sink and small chemical toilet. There is also an ice box and kitchen sink. One discovery that was almost hard to believe was that even the 6 v light bulbs seem to be original due to the fact they have the Covered Wagon name on the glass. The exterior has the original paint except for the roof and bottom trim band.
It is 17 feet long and was built in Mt. Clemens, MI and remains as it did when it left the factory in 1937. All of the interior including the curtains and seat fabrics are original and in excellent condition. Both the cooking stove and heating furnace appear
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I do use the trailer and I pulled it 600 miles on the Historic National Road Caravan in 2006 which took us from Cumberland, MD to Vandalia, IL. My tow vehicle was a 1948 Buick Roadmaster.This is without doubt one of the most original, untouched pre war trailers left and one of my favorites of the collection. http://www.thewallacecollection.net/ FOR SALE 45k
1936 CW “Master” Model
1930 Covered Wagon Prototype
1936 Covered Wagon
Daniel and Bernie Donovan
1935 Covered Wagon
The Donovans tow their 1936 Covered Wagon with their 1936 Chevy Master Deluxe. At this time, only one other 1936 Covered Wagon ‘Master’ model is known to exist. They plan to leave the interior in original condition. They are in the process of restoring the exterior with help from Daniel’s brother Michael.
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Ashlee Grace Andrews
The Original The Original
RV Leveling system RV Leveling system
Works as great as our Stop n’ Chock But has Works as great as ourofStop n’ Chock But has the added benefit a dock as well! theIdeal added benefit of a dock as well! for: Travel Trailers, MoTor HoMes, UTiliTy
Trailers, BoaT Trailers, anyTHing wiTH a HiTcH jack Ideal for: Travel Trailers, MoTor HoMes, UTiliTy Trailers, BoaT Trailers, anyTHing wiTH a HiTcH jack
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In Loving Memory 1963 Aladdin Trailer and a 1957 Chevy hold many memories for Karla and Wayne By Caroline Lacitinola In the Spring of 2016 our first book will be coming out. In it, we share the personal stories of the people we have met in the vintage camper trailer hobby. Some of the stories are inspirational, others are humorous, but all share the connection each individual or family has to the pastime. Along with hundreds of pictures, the book is an insight into the wide variety of people that share a common passion for old tin. This is one of those stories… While attending a rally in Oregon this past summer, Karla Smith and Wayne Andrews were very gracious when we asked to take pictures of their 1957 Chevy 210, 4 door wagon and their 1963 Aladdin, Magic Lamp vintage camper trailer. Wayne had found the Aladdin in a farmer’s field and bought it for only $600. Wayne said that it was ready to take camping with only $200 in materials and 100 plus hours of labor. After sharing the basics of how the trailer was acquired Karla shared the heart of their story. Following an injury, Wayne was forced to quit work and subsequently had to sell his toys. They sold everything including their classic cars. This meant
that they were no longer going to car shows and hanging out with their best friend Greg Smith. Greg missed them. One day he asked them to go on a ride to look at a classic Chevy wagon that he wanted to buy. He bought the wagon and they drove it home. The next day was Karla and Wayne’s anniversary. Greg showed up for breakfast and handed them the keys. He gifted them the 1957 Chevy. Karla and Wayne’s daughter, Ashlee Grace, loved the car. She and her friends actually took the car to her senior prom in 2013. Ashlee loved camping and hanging out with her parents. During her second year of nursing school Ashlee suffered a double pulmonary embolism and passed away suddenly. Ashlee leaves a big hole in her parents’ lives. They cherish the memories and pictures they have of Ashlee enjoying the Chevy and camping as a family. Karla said that camping makes her feel close to Ashlee. Wayne and Karla have memorialized Ashlee on the wagon with a painted graphic of angel’s wings and the words “In Loving Memory” above their daughters name.
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Cadillac Camper and a B17 Bomber?
Owner: George Garza, Orcutt, CA
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George, of the Beatniks Car Club in Southern CA, collects all types of vintage campers, cars, bikes. His business partner, Lupe Rodriguez, helps find, bring home, and repair these vehicles. The Caddy camper is very original and is used regularly. They were made from Hearses and Ambulances in the 50’s. The camper was converted in the 50’s from a B17 Bomber Fuselage. It has several aircraft riveted patches down the sides. They cover actual bullet holes received
in battle. George refurbished this camper as a dedication to his father and other family members that served in the armed forces. There is an old bomber style mural painted on the side to resemble his mother. The knobs on all of the cabinets are 25 cal. bullet cartridges and it has old cage style lights from a submarine. Another hobby of his is re creating world war II trench art, like the lamp pictured. He also enjoys incorporating military memorabilia into every day items, such as a camp stove with legs that are large caliber shell casings. Yet another trailer that show the imagination and creativity of the folks in this hobby!
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Replacing Electric Brakes On Your Vintage Trailer By Tim Haworth A few years ago I decided to replace the electric brakes on our 1950 Aljoa Sportsman. I made a phone call to the local brake shop and discovered I could purchase a new set for less than $150. if they could match my old set. They were pretty confident that they could, so I dismantled one wheel and took the brake assembly in for them to look at. As it turns out, they had a pair in stock, so I was literally a happy camper. Additionally, the new brake set had an adjustable feature.
Electric trailer brakes work much the same as drum brakes on cars and trucks. There are two brake shoes per wheel. These are fastened to the brake backing plate with their friction surfaces
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facing away from each other to form a circle on the inside of the brake drum. The assembly includes an electromagnetic pad designed to come into contact with the disc surface of the brake drum. By adjusting the current through the brake controller, you can adjust the braking action to fit the need. Electric brakes are really quite a simple design. The electromagnet is activated when you put on the brakes. It grabs onto the armature of the drum and thus expands the brake pads outward. Brake assemblies are handed. They must be installed so that they work in concert with the wheel rotation. They will be marked left and right. Left is the driver’s side. The two wires are signal and ground. It does not matter which one you hook to ground, but be consistent for both sides. I recommend that you purchase enough new wire to connect the two brake systems together and to run the lead up to the trailer hitch. I purchased 20’ of sheathed two-strand wire for our 12’ trailer. First, get under your trailer with a flashlight and check the backing plate flange for bolts. You will see four or five nuts on
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the inside face of the mounting flange. If you see no bolts, it is likely that your brake assembly is a welded unit and cannot be replaced without replacing the axle as well. If your brake assemblies are bolted on to the axle flange, then the brakes can probably be replaced. What follows is a brief guide to help you do it yourself. To start, you’ll need a floor jack or bottle jack, a pair of pliers, end wrenches, a socket and ratchet set, a torque wrench and a breaker bar if your bolts are rusted on. A penetrating lubricant will be helpful in loosening tight bolts. As you proceed with this repair, it is wise to take photographs so that you can reference them during re-assembly. Jack up the trailer. Be sure to block the other wheel or hitch the trailer to your tow vehicle to prevent it from moving. Remove the wheel and then the dust cap from the hub. (See note on opposite page) Looking at the hub you will see a large nut with a cotter pin on the end of the spindle. This holds the brake drum and the bearings onto the axle. Make
Note: The photos show the trailer jacked at the axle. I found out the hard way that it is much more difficult to remove the wheel when the trailer is jacked in this manner. For the other side, I chose a jacking point that allowed the wheel and the suspension to descend as I jacked the trailer. This makes it much easier to remove the wheel and have access to the hub.
a mental note of how many spindle threads are showing from the nut. This will be a good reference when you put it back together. Remove the cotter pin and back off the nut. Now remove the retainer washer and the outer wheel bearing. It should slide off in your now greasy hand. Set these aside on a clean shop rag. Remove the brake drum and the inner bearing and shield. Put the inner bearing assembly with the other parts on the clean cloth. Keep them in the same order for re-installation. You’re now looking at the brake assembly. Four or five bolts hold it onto the axle flange. These are through bolts, so there are nuts and washers on the inner side of the flange. Determine the wrench sizes you’ll need and remove the bolts. Disconnect the two wires and the backing plate and brake assembly is off the trailer.
axle. Ask your brake supplier for the torque requirements for your assembly.
bearings when you re-install them. The brake assemblies come as a complete unit. You just have to install them onto the axle flange, tightening the bolts in an alternating pattern. The recommended torque is 45-70 pounds for a 3500 lb.
Once you have installed the new brake assembly, you can repack and install the inner bearings, the wheel hub, the outer bearings and the retainer washer. Install the nut and tighten it down until the wheel hub will not turn. Back the nut off about one turn. The wheel hub should rotate smoothly with no end-play. It is better to have the wheel loose rather than tight. Insert the cotter pin and bend the ends back. Install the dust cap and the wheel. Repeat the process for the other side and install the new wiring. Your final step will be to take the trailer on a test run to check the brakes and set the controller.
Take the brake assembly, the hub and the bearings to your brake shop to see if they can provide a matching set. Have them look at the bearings to see if you need to replace them. You may need to have the drums turned as well. Before you leave the shop, ask for a cup of axle grease so you can repack your
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Going, Going, Gone By Paul Lacitinola Sources: IMDb, Wikipedia and Mecum Auctions Photos: Courtesy of Mecum Auctions Frank Bullitt’s car was a 1968 Ford Mustang 390 GT 2+2 Fastback. The bad guys drove a 1968 Dodge Charger 440 Magnum. “Bullit” is an all guts, no glory movie of a San Francisco cop who becomes determined to find the underworld kingpin that killed the witness that he was protecting. The 1968 movie starring Steve McQueen was one of the films that made McQueen the ultra-cool male film star of the 1960s. Steve McQueen was no stranger to cool cars and motorcycles in his 25 year acting history that included over 40 movies. His passion for motor sports, and his lifelong love of motor racing, may have been summed up in his comment: “Racing is life. Anything before or after is just waiting.” Steve McQueen was many things to many people. On the silver screen he was the rebellious bad boy that influenced a generation. With hands on a wheel, he was a motoring icon. But behind the scenes he was also a generous benefactor, donating time and money to help struggling teens. It’s that softer side of Steve McQueen that’s really quite inspiring, and it’s a side that this rather unassuming Chevrolet camper sheds some light on. In 1978, McQueen bought the ’52 Chevrolet 3800 pickup “on a whim” as his wife Barbara Minty McQueen told Mecum Auctions. “Steve’s collection of cars
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Original interior is a blast to the past. Options: In-dash radio, driver’s side spotlight and Sun visor
and motorcycles cluttered the private driveway that serviced a row of homes near the beach,” said Minty McQueen, “but that didn’t stop him from buying whatever he wanted.” According to the auction house, McQueen used the vintage camper while embarking on cross-country camping trips. Out back, the galvanized metal camper housed a twin bed, storage cabinets, and tool boxes, while underneath the hood rumbled a 235ci straight-six engine. The camper actually dates all the way back to 1952 when California sheet metal fabricator Harold Van Hoosen built the custom rig, nicknamed “Dust Tite.”
Simple sleeping area in camper (above) 235 CI Loadmaster engine/4 spd (below)
Next to rare and iconic cars like McQueen’s own Porsche 930 Turbo, the camper would seem rather unimportant. But according to the auction house, this was one of the last cars McQueen ever drove. In fact, this camper is the vehicle that Steve McQueen drove from his home in Santa Paula, California, to Ventura County Airport on November 3, 1980, en route to Mexico for cancer treatment. Sadly, he would pass away on November 7 due to complications of the procedure. Reverend Billy Graham is said to have accompanied McQueen on that final journey to the airport, and the evangelist noted that McQueen peppered him with questions about the afterlife, before the two shared a prayer and parted ways. On November 24, 1984, the Chevrolet camper was originally sold at the Hollywood star’s estate auction in Las Vegas, Nevada. November 14, 2015 Mecum Auctions sold the camper in Anaheim, California for a reported $37,500. While the simple pickup may not reflect McQueen’s bad boy silver screen persona, it does tell of the leading man and his life off-camera.
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The Hunter (1980) - Tom Horn (1978) - An Enemy of the People (1976) - Dixie Dynamite (1974) - The T The Reivers (1968) – Bullitt (1968) - The Thomas Crown Affair (1966) - The Sand Pebbles (1966) - Nevada Sm Soldier in the Rain (1963) - The Great Escape (1963) - The War Lover (1962) - Hell Is for Heroes (1961)
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Photos: Courtesy of Mecum Auctions
Towering Inferno (1973) – Papillon (1972) - The Getaway (1972) - Junior Bonner (1971) - Le Mans (1969) mith (1965) - The Cincinnati Kid (1965) - Baby the Rain Must Fall (1963) - Love with the Proper Stranger (1963) - The Honeymoon Machine (1961) – The Magnificent Seven (1960) – Wanted Dead or Alive (TV 1958-61)
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C r A B H u t
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“Finally! Someone is moving me off this lonely dirt lot. There are rumors that I may have a new owner! “Okay-I’m parked in front of someone’s house and here comes a couple of people to look at me. It looks like the man is really interested in me, but his wife is not so sure. I really don’t blame her because I am not in the best shape. They come inside and talk about all the new things they could do for me. Hoooray!!! They want me!!! I am about to get a new life with some fun adventures and of course a makeover to match!!” “I am no longer just a trailer- Cheryl and JD named me the Crabhut! I am a 1968 Cardinal Deluxe, 13 foot, with some spiffy new extras. I have all new cushions with a cute flip-flop design, some beach cottage extras a gorgeous bamboo floor, and of course a few Crabby Items thrown in for fun!!” “Oh Yeah – and did I mention that they tow me around with a 1954 Ford F100 pickup that is totally tricked out for comfort and safety! Now how cool is that?” Written and photos by: Cherly deVoss. Owners: James and Cheryl deVoss from Phoenix, Arizona.
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Cowboy TV Shows of the 1950’s Hopalong Cassidy Wyatt Earp and the Cisco Kid Roy Rogers and Rin Tin Tin Davy Crockett Bonanza Rawhide Gunsmoke The Lone Ranger Zorro
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mid-twentieth century pop culture Some consider the 1950’s as the golden age of Coca Cola. It was at this time that TV was emerging. Nothing shaped American life in the 1950s more than television. At the end of World War II, the television was a novelty for only a few thousand wealthy Americans. Just 10 years later, nearly two-thirds of households in America had a television. As the price of television sets dropped, the number of viewers grew. The biggestselling periodical of the decade was TV Guide. In a nation once recognized by strong regional differences, network television programming blurred these distinctions and helped promote a national popular culture.
the movies with the love of his puppy Labrador who just so happened to resemble a polar bear. Together these ideas formed the “Northern Lights” commercial which featured polar bears watching the aurora borealis (the “movie”) and drinking from bottles of Coca-Cola.
Sometimes he was tall and skinny. At that time there was no set Santa Claus like we might know today.
Television provided a venue for brands like Coca Cola to spread their message not only in America but all over the world. Coke became an American icon depicting itself as a leisure and relaxation product. It was also during this time that Pepsi was starting to emerge and helped push Coke to try new ideas such as different bottle sizes. Fast forward to today and Coca Cola is as popular as ever, and so is its appeal to collectors of its vintage memorabilia products. Coca-Cola’s “Mad Men” used TV to remind consumers that Coke wasn’t just a summer drink. Coca-Cola would begin using an image of Santa designed by Haddon Sundbloom to appear in a huge magazine ad campaign. Santa would be depicted making a list, checking it twice, and drinking lots of Cola. It was this depiction of Santa Claus by CocaCola that helped shape the way we see Santa today and images of “Coca-Cola Santa” as seen on Heffron’s vintage inspired tin signs is a great reminder of history that Coca-Cola has had on the holidays. Coca Cola and Santa Claus go hand in hand. In the early days Santa was envisioned as an older gentleman riding a white horse. Instead of the classic red and white colors he could sometimes be seen in a variety of colors or even fur. Santa wasn’t even fat and jolly.
The technology required to create this commercials was pretty advanced for its time and it took a lot of hard work and 12 long weeks to produce the final result. “That’s really what we were trying to do - create a character that’s innocent, fun, and reflects the best attributes we like to call ‘human’,” said Ken when asked about the commercial.
A mission well accomplished and it’s this reason why our Coca-Cola Polar Bear is one of our hottest neon sign items.
Fun Fact: On May 15th, 1950, Time Magazine featured the famous red disc of Coca-Cola serving a globe of the world on its cover. This was a true milestone for the company. Heffron’s also has its very own section dedicated to Coca-Cola which includes the Cola Polar Bear. It was actually a puppy that would inspire the classic “Northern Lights” commercial that helped turn the polar bear into one of the most popular symbols of CocaCola? When asked to develop the innovative commercial, creator Ken Stewart combined the idea of drinking Coke at
Coca-Cola has come a long way since the 1950’s and as you can see it has also had a huge impact on the holidays that we all enjoyed these past couple of months. At Heffron’s we encourage you to show off your passion and build your own Coca-Cola or 1950’s collection. Good luck with your projects and remember, for all of your retro furniture, neon signs, neon clocks needs head over to www.Heffrons.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
Trivia:
Who was the first president to be televised? Answer on page 44.
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TRAILER COUPLERS Replacing yours may become necessary The coupler is the metal piece that actually connects your trailer to the tow vehicle. Once the coupler is permanently bolted or welded to your trailer’s frame rails (the “tongue”), it fits over the round ball hitch attached to your vehicle. Latches of various types on the coupler clamp around the round ball tightly enough to prevent it from disconnecting, but they allow just the right amount of play for proper pivoting around turns. Couplers are subject to a large amount of wear-and-tear. They move and bounce around on top of the trailer ball as you’re driving. They are exposed to the elements. Eventually, the release mechanism becomes sticky, or the fit on the trailer ball becomes loose, or corrosion can compromise their functionality. Replacing your coupler may become necessary to ensure that your trailer-tohitch connection remains as secure as possible. Trailer tongue shape determines the type of coupler you’ll need. Most trailer tongues are known as an “A-frame” where the two frame rails join together at a 50 degree angle at the front of the trailer. This is the industry standard.(top right). Some vintage trailers may have a “straight” tongue; when one single frame rail serves as an attachment point. (center right)
A-frame couplers are designed to fit over the very front end of the trailer where frame rails join together. Since industry standards specify a 50 degree angle, there’s no special concern needed when purchasing any A-frame coupler - except for personal preference when it comes to choosing a trigger latch or sliding collar release mechanisms. (bottom right). A-frame couplers are usually intended to be welded onto the trailer frame rather than bolted in place. If you don’t have the ability to weld your coupler yourself a professional welder, or even a muffler shop like Marco Muffler can complete simple welding tasks like this that may arise during your restoration. Hitch balls come in 1 7/8” and 2” and 2 5/16” sizes. 2” being the most popular on vintage camper trailers. To tow safely you must have a coupler that matches the size of your ball. Be sure your latch is functioning properly and that you always pin the latch to insure that it stays latched and keeps the trailer secure as you drive. A trailer that detaches from the trailer while you’re towing is not going to make for a great weekend.
Note: The numbers on your coupler are
patent and model numbers for the coupler, NOT your trailers VIN number. Quality, value and Service... ”Always on Sale”
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Camp Crawdad Classic Camp Out by: Leslie Nuckolls “Vintage Trailer Grrrl”
A great time was had by all at our first annual “Camp Crawdad Vintage Trailer Camp out Gathering”, on October 9th, 10th and 11th in Kernville CA. in conjunction with the 40th Annual, “Kick back in Kernville Car Show”. Special thanks to Rick Locke of the Kernville Airport for letting us use the Airport camp ground and also a special thanks to Randy Henderson for helping plan this event as well as providing most of the food and drinks and for being the BBQ Master-Chef! Another thanks goes out to all of you who came and camped with us and for bringing your cool vintage trailers! It was great meeting you all, and hope we can do it again next year! “Go Camp Crawdad!”
BIG WOODY CAMPERS www.bigwoodycampers.com
Handcrafted Custom Campers Plans, kits, parts, and accessories for the home builder
Based on the designs of the 40's and 50's, Big Woody Campers have a look that will turn heads. call: 715-271-0465
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Tinker Tin Trailer Company Tinker Tin Trailer Co. is a vintage trailer rental company, based out of the Central Coast of California. Tinker Tin’s fleet of 30 different rental trailers are delivered and set up all over the country for special events, private party camp outs, weddings, media and film.
“Like all trailer enthusiasts we are extremely passionate about saving these old trailers, and preserving an iconic piece of American History! All our early trailers tell such an important story of that time so we like to keep them in their original condition. Our canned hams and some of our other 50s-60s campers though, if they aren’t in the best original condition then we will add our Tinker Tin twist on them, or turn them into something completely new!” - Carl and Jaime Holm The Tinker Tin collection consists of fully restored vintage campers for overnight accommodations, as well as a handful of vintage trailers turned bars- set up to serve craft cocktails, beer and wine. Included in their rental fleet, are a few different vintage campers that Tinker Tin restored and converted into vintage trailer Photo Booth’s -complete with touchscreen monitor and instant photo strip print outs. Tinker Tin’ s favorite trailers of all though, are their collection of rare period piece trailers ranging from- the earliest a 1929 Curtis Aeorocar, 1930s Masonite homebuilt, 1936 Hayes, 1937 Covered Wagon, 1940s Westcraft and the list goes on!
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SHINDIG a large, lively party, especially one celebrating something.
Trailer Prom:
Trailer Prom is an annual event hosted by Tinker Tin Trailer Co., at Barrelhouse Brewery in Templeton, Ca. Trailer Prom celebrates the end of summer and all things ‘trailer’ with a wild and fun night, open to the public and all ages! This year there was over 300 people in attendance, dancing the night away in their best boots and prom digs from all eras, to Monte Mills & the Lucky Horseshoe Band! Guests toured a collection of vintage trailers, and even got their quintessential old time-y tintype prom photos taken by Revival Tintype! Tinker Tin crowned the best dressed couple as their annual Trailer Prom King & Queen. The winners received the infamous hot pink pony, and a weekends stay in one of Tinker Tin’s campers. For more info on next years Prom email info@tinkertin.com.
Hosts Carl and Jaime Holm get in on the fun at their own shindig! (right)
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Swanee Owens
The Rusty Ritz 1972 Lark
I am a member of a group of camping women called Sisters on the Fly. I became a member about a year after I retired from my job and was looking for something fun to do with my girlfriends. My husband was watching a TV show about RV’s and saw a segment devoted to SOTF. We have classics cars and go to car shows so we appreciate anything old that’s been restored. We understand the work that goes into it! When I saw the vintage campers the women in SOTF were camping in and heard about the trips they take, I knew immediately this was something I would like. I got on the computer and found myself a vintage 1962 Little Gem trailer and drove to Kentucky to pick it up! The trailer had been restored but was not exactly the way I wanted it, so I started work on it immediately. Since then I have restored several trailers with the help of my husband. If I don’t have the skills to do something, he does. I am absolutely in love with vintage trailers now and camping with my girlfriends has given me a freedom and a sense of accomplishment I would not have had without joining this group. This is one of my trailers. It’s a 1972 Lark called The Rusty Ritz. I found it on the side of the road in front of a chiropractor’s office. He had purchased it and installed a sliding window to sell hot dogs at his son’s ball games. However, he didn’t realize it wouldn’t meet
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Photos by Carol Youorski www.youorskiphotography.com www.pinkribbonrides.com
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health codes for dispensing food without a lot of extra expense so he decided to sell it. The entire camper is now painted to look like a rusty old metal and wood shack. I had a picture in my head of what I wanted and hired a young artist to paint it out. It was by far much cheaper than having the camper professionally painted and restored. The top portion is simulated rust. Several shades of paint were mixed with sawdust and sand and put on like a mud paste. It’s hard as a rock now and shows no signs of coming off. The bottom was painted to look like wooden boards. The whitewalls on the tires were actually painted on too. On the floor I used plywood and scored it every six inches to make it look like old wooden planks. I painted it with porch paint in a green similar to the shade you see on the outside and then used glaze to put in the cracks to give the floor a dirty worn out look. I furnished it with a twin bed and two other pieces that are bolted to the floor. By removing the wall cabinets the trailer looks huge on the inside. I still have tons of storage in the dresser and the table I made. The inside walls looked too clean because the paneling was all new. So I stained them first then faux painted leaks running down the walls in the corners and on the ceiling....yes I said leaks! The whole theme of this trailer was to look even older and rougher than it is and every old trailer I’ve ever seen had leaks! When I’ve taken it to shows people have actually told me I’d better repair the inside leaks and I get quite a chuckle out of it. I’ve also had men touch the side of the trailer and comment that they’d never seen aluminum rust before and walk off with a puzzle look on their face! To me this trailer represents what people can do with their trailers if they don’t have the money or the knowledge to restore it to original condition, but still want to have a great time camping. The freedom of this trailer is if a rock hits it and causes a dent or a ding in the paint it doesn’t matter one bit. It just adds to the look. . I would advise anyone to let a professional check out your trailer before you make a decision to alter it. It could be worth saving. In my case original was not what I wanted. For me camping represents a simpler time in life. It offers time with nature and friends and there’s no better way to do it than in a vintage camper. When I’m driving down the road pulling an old camper people always wave, honk and stop to talk to me at gas stations. I look at the new campers made today and think only that they remind me of a giant loaf of bread going down the road. I don’t even wonder where they’re going because I know when they
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get there they will probably spend more time inside than out. Yet every time I see a vintage camper it makes me want to go somewhere, to be outside and to be with friends. Let’s face it; vintage trailers are just a lot cuter than what they make now! My young nephew described it best when we saw a tiny
vintage camper on the road with a boxy style and he said “Look! There goes a box full of fun!” Hope you enjoy the pictures. I love it when I go camping and people point to my trailer and laugh. That’s what camping is all about!
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1952 Clipper Watt “Orbie” Mungall
A (self proclaimed) retired, now crusty Doodle-bugger.
I found the Clipper near Brandon, Nebraska. It had been for sale next to the state highway for 10 yrs. That’s when they (old trailers) were (thought to be) ugly. An air spray service outside Phoenix was the first owner and the post mistress from Ogallala, NE had also owned it. It had Mexican travel permit decals in original Windows from 1963. I bought it for $1,200. and towed it home to Willard, UT with the original tires (stupid). It had the original Servel gas fridge that worked (when I got it), but later had to be replaced due to failing operation and safety. It now has a 1930’s White brand icebox.
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The Clipper has an ID tag next to the door, under the Clipper badge, of the salesman in Burbank that originally sold the trailer “Edward Loudinclose.” (Found on the net!). Still has the original covered tail light lens with the “arrows”. The Dixie stove was in perfect shape and works like day one. After an acid wash and many hrs of Rolite polish, it was back to being the beauty it was in ‘52. We have to leave early for any function to have time for folks that ask at store stops, “what the hell is that?” Hard to lose at a RV park or Rally. Light weight and it cuts the air like a razor.
BUELLTON RALLY 2015 Photos by: George Garza
About 160 vintage travel trailers from California and the West Coast are gathering at Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground in Buellton for the Vintage Trailer Bash. The owners of these vintage trailers love the hobby which includes period-correct accessorizing, period-correct fashion and often, vintage automobiles which pull the vintage trailers. This rally sells out months in advance so see our calendar for details for next years event: September 23-25, 2016
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The California Auto Museum The CA Auto Museum in Sacramento, CA, (with the support of The Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine) has an exhibit of vintage camper trailers on display through April 10th, 2016. Opening night was a huge success with well over 100 trailers admirers in attendance. Carly Starr, the museums curator, (pictured bottom right in the red dress) along with VCT Mag pub-
lisher Paul Lacitinola, (bottom center in black shirt) worked together with the help of collectors like Vince Martinico and John and Phyllis Green to assemble an interesting array of trailers from the 1930’s through the 1960’s. Also in attendance: Middle top, Gayle, Debra and Faye. Middle row right Wayne and Kathy. Bottom right, Caroline Lacitinola in the blue dress.
Photos by Dale Godfrey
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USA Rally Calendar We do our best to confirm all even before press but plans do change. Make sure and call to confirm. Many times rallies have an open house on Saturday to view the trailers. Call to confirm the rally is open to the public if not stated. Listing your rally on this calendar is FREE, just let us know in advance. We also offer cheap display ad rates for rallies if you want your event to stand out. Paid ads include a listing on our website and Facebook page events calendar. February 4-7, 2016 Lake Havasu City, AZ Lake Havasu State Park (Windsor Beach) 699 London Bridge Rd. Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403 2nd TIME VINTAGE CAMPOUT . This is a non hook up campout, dry camping, there will be a plug in to plug in cell phones, etc. Power available for medical devices, limited amount. Showers that are unmetered. Hiking trail with fantastic views. Cactus garden at the park. Bass fishing tournament. Sunday large swap meet near by, starts early. Nice beach walks. Fees are $18.00 per night camping, $5.00 per trailer for rally fees. jra@cnw.com please reserve, pay when you arrive. Cherri and Mike, hosts. February 12-15 2016 Cloverdale, CA 4TH Annual Sweatheart Campout. Make reservations with the Cloverdale/ Healdsburg KOA. Let them know your with the Vintage Camper Trailers Club for a discounted rate. 707-894-3337. Hosted by VCT Nor-Cal Tow Girlz President Laura Waterhouse 707-486-9254 and Tow Boyz Member Nick Uribe 707695-1346.
February 12-14th, 2016 Sacramento, CA The Sacramento Autorama is now in its 66th year. Known as the Kustom Capital of the World and boasts being home to one of the longest running indoor car shows in the world. This year the Autorama welcomes vintage camper trailers! Free camping and you can stay the night in your trailer (water and electric hook-ups.) The event is FREE if you pre-register for display only. If you want to be judged, you need to pay the appropriate entry fees. Simply write VINTAGE CAMPER TRAILER across the top of your registration. Tim at (916) 709-3822 February 25-28, 2016 Oceanside, CA Guajome Park campground, 3000 Guajome Lake Road, Oceanside, CA 92057. 760.724.4489 Due to many issues at my last birthday campout at woods we have moved my yearly birthday campout to Gaujome Park campground. This is a smaller campground and has only 35 sites. We are in site 7 please make your own reservation. We are excited to check out this campground for
my birthday and this time my birthday will fall during the campout. San Diego County Park Reservations: http://www. sandiegocounty.gov/parks/Camping March 11-13, 2016 Spartanburg, SC Our second year to kick off camping season with a casual gathering at Croft State Park in Spartanburg, SC. Detailed information can be found at www. SouthernVintageTrailers.com on the events tab. March 17-20, 2016 Grant, AL We hope you will join us at Honeycomb Campground for our first Northern Alabama Gathering. We have tentatively reserved 15 waterfront water and electric sites. The campground will add more if these book up. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. Campground website: www.camp-honeycomb.com 188 Campground Rd, Grant, Alabama 35747. Price per night: 29.00 Amenities: Each site is flat with gravel and contains a Fire Rings and Picnic table. The bath house is newly updated with private rooms. We will have use of a pavilion.
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Reservations: Contact the campground directly at 256-582-9884. Tell them you are with the Vintage Trailer group and remind them you should be getting the 10% “Gold Age Discount” for our group. Gatherings are casual events with very limited planned Activities: Friday 7pm S’mores Bar Meet and Greet. Saturday 6pm - Crock Pot Pot Luck. Kim Hoke, Spartanburg, SC March 18-20, 2016 Tyler, TX Tyler State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife 789 Park Road 16, Tyler, Texas 75706 Individuals are responsible for making their own reservations. Reservations can be made online at http:// tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/tyler The Lakeview Loop is full. Filled by Teardrop and Vintage Camper group members. Camping is great in the entire park. Please Join us! Shelley Tumino will Host pot luck at her site in Lakeview Loop on Saturday night
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March 18-20, 2016 Santa Barbara, CA 5th Annual Ocean Mesa Vintage Trailerists’ Rally. Vintage Trailers welcome from the 1900’s thru 1975. NO OPEN HOUSE. Liz and Barry Marks 805-3500617 March 24-27, 2016 Riverside, CA Teardrop Time Gathering: The biggest and most important announcement is regarding Lake Perris Teardrop Only Campout. We know many will be very sad and disappointed but 2016 will be the last Teardrop Time campout we will be hosting. Ray and I will be moving out of state next year and feel we cannot run such an event from so far away. We have been patiently waiting for our daughter to be in a secure situation, away at college, so we can feel comfortable moving away. We are sad too but we are also very happy to finally have our chance to move and build our dream home in Arizona and start the second part of our life. Let’s make 2016 the biggest teardrop trailer campout ever.
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Hot Rod Magazine February 1959
Support San Diego’s Come Garden Of Innocence
www.gardenofinnocece.org
For registration form and more information email: autobody55@yahoo.com
April 1 - 3, 2016 Bonita (San Diego), CA Sweetwater Round Up, Vintage Trailer Rally. $49 per night (2 Night Fundraiser) For registration form and more information please email: autobody55@yahoo. com
April 8-10, 2016 San Diego, CA 3rd Annual Pismo South Campland on the Bay Vintage Trailer Rally. $101. 2211 Pacific Beach Dr. San Diego, 92109 For registration form, email cathygeary@ verizon.net April 8th-10th, 2016 Joshua Tree, CA 2nd annual Desert Vintage Trailer Rally! Located in the eclectic town of Joshua Tree. Surrounded by beautiful desert scenery and clear blue skies with some of the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Larrie & Lynn Follstad. 760 221-9777 lfollstad@yahoo.com April 21-23 2016 Corning, CA 7th Annual Rally at the River, Woodson RV Park, Corning, CA. Open house Saturday 10-2pm. Over 80 vintage trailers parked at the River. Call Rachel-Harps RV, for further info, 916-434-9151. Outing is sold out, but get on the waiting list.
with Cowboy shoot outs, Vintage Fashion Show, Farmers market, Pet Parade, Classic Car Show, Vintage Vendors, Sock Hop Night, Eagles Tribute Band and much more. Enjoy 3 swimming pools, state of the art fitness center, billiards room, championship pickleball courts and shuffleboard courts. Stay in resort comfort surroundings with area restaurants and shopping within walking distance. Sites are filling up fast. 1-800-323-9610 April 27- May 1, 2016 Jekyll Island, GA Join us for our 5th Annual Spring Fling event this year at Jekyll Island, GA. We have 75 sites reserved for a fun filled weekend in the sun. Detailed information can be found at www.SouthernVintageTrailers.com on the events tab. April 27th - May 1st, 2016 Hemet, CA 2nd Vintage Trailer, Camper and Car Event. $59.00 per night with a 2 night minimum stay. Full payment required at time of booking. 10% cancellation fee with 30 day notice. Additional guest $20.00 per night. Country Western Night
May 12-15, 2016 Chula Vista, CA 3rd Annual Cindy Ross’ Vintage Trailer Camp 2016. $45.90 per night. Barbara & Cindy. 951-672-2366. Barbarashields@aol.com May 13-16, 2016 Manchester, CA At Manchester Beach Mendocino coast KOA. 44300 Kinny Road, Manchester, CA. 95459. 707-882-2375 or 800-5624188. www.manchesterbeachkoa.com, Randy and Charmaine Bonfantini. Reservations are made directly to KOA Manchester beach. We blocked 30
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May 12-14, 2016 Chula Vista, CA Join us for the 3rd Annual Cindy Ross’ Vintage Trailer Rally at the Chula Vista RV Park, 460 Sandpiper Way, Chula Vista, Ca.. $45.90 per night per RV up to 2 people. Extra $3.00 per night per guests up to 2 more per site., Dogs & Cats - $1.00 per night per pet. Guests may stay before (Wednesday) or after (Sunday May 15th) for the group rate but must make own arrangements with the office at the Park (619-422-0111), Plan early foextra days as the park fills up rapidly for the summer. Lots of things planned - Open House, Contests, Prizes, For more information or Registration form please contact BARBARA @ 951 672 2366 or E-Mail - Barbarashields@ aol.com Checks should be made payable to CINDY ROSS @ 22125 ROSARY AVE,. NUEVO, CA. 92567. May 13-15, 2016 Bodega Bay, CA First annual vintage trailer rally. Come join us in beautiful Bodega Bay potluck Hawaiian taco bar homemade wind chime contest friday open house Saturday. Robin Gutierres, KristinaGutierres@sbcglobal.net. 510-537-1537
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May 19-22, 2016 Pismo Beach, CA Pismo Coast resort RV. Open House 10 am to 2pm. June 2-5, 2016 Grass Valley, CA The 3rd Annual Tall Pines Vintage Trailer Rendezvous is happening, rain or shine, at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. Check out www.tallpinesrendezvous.com and www.facebook.com/ tallpinesrendezvous for updates and registration forms. Saturday June 4, 2016 Meadville, Pennsylvania Annual Car Show & Vintage RV Rally. Welcome to Our 9th Annual Car Show & 1st Vintage RV Rally in Western PA at Meadville KOA Campground – Northwestern PA’s Fun Family Camping and Cabins Zone! Our annual car show is held the weekend after Memorial Day each year! We hope you’ll cruise into our car show with your antique, classic, modern muscle, hot rod, street rod or rat rod, import or sport compact car, and truck! Tow and camp in your restored, Vintage RV (Pre-1980), display your Vintage RV after the car Show from 3:30-5:30! See details below! 814-7893251. https://meadvillekoa.com/carshow-and-vintage-rv-rally/ June 4th - 6th, 2016 Winthrop, WA Winthrop, Wine & Western Women in Old~West Winthrop, Washington weekend after Memorial Day. A casual Women ONLY gathering. We’ll paint
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the town. It’s only one block down. Fly casting lessons. Wine & Spirits Tasting, Craft and Antique/Vintage Sale at the Campground. Vintage Trailers, Western Decor & Duds encouraged. Pine Near Campground, pinenearpark@gmail. com, 509-341-4062 June 10-12, 2016 Big Bear Lake, Ca Come enjoy the mountains for our third annual vintage trailer run at the Lighthouse Resort on the beautiful north shore of Big Bear Lake. On Saturday morning come mingle for some coffee and donuts followed by an open house in the afternoon. $40/night. Contact: Max Dobis or Lori Dobis @ (909) 8669464 or email: lighthousemarina35@ gmail.com June 10th - 12th, 2016 South Lake Tahoe, CA Hey Trailer Buddies! I’m looking forward to the 8th annual Fallen Leaf Lake vintage trailer camp out. I know I am planning well in advance, but this is a very popular campground & does sell out every year months in advance. I am in space #23 & will be arriving earlier in the week. This is a casual camp out NOT an organized rally. Just a few good friends camping & hanging out around the campfire : ) We have a pot-luck Saturday night & the rest is completely open to whatever works! Please feel free to pass this along to other friends. Everyone is welcome - vintage trailers, new trailers, tents, vans - all types of happy campers : ) Last year we had over 40 trailers! You make your own reservation
Answer from page 29: Harry Truman.
sites for next year. So don’t hesitate as half are full hook up and the other half is water/electric. This is a casual gathering. Saturday whadinger breakfast at the fire pit. Sunday we finish with the traditional vintage toast party before we all depart. Also at the fire pit if you wish. Just come and relax and enjoy the company of your fellow trailer friends.
directly with Reserve America. There are no hook-ups at your site (dry camping only), but there are clean bathrooms & newer shower houses. Fallen Leaf Lake / 2165 Fallen Leaf Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA Kathy Lebs gardengirl29@ gmail.com July 15th, 2016 Olympia, WA 2nd Annual South Sound Vintage Trailer Rally - Open to all vintage trailers pre-1975. Come for good company and great trailers. Make state park reservations online at: http://parks.state. wa.us/223/Reservations. . There are full hook up sites as well as wooded sites. The rally hosts will be in the hook up area but feel free to camp wherever. Make reservation early (those dates open up for reservations on October 15th). Boating, hiking, music, games, fun! No rally fees. Find us on Facebook at South Sound Trailer Rally. Rally hosts are Chris and Jennie McDonald, chrismcdonald0@gmail.com - 360-7912038 August 26th, 2016 Sunbury, PA Come join us for our first ever Vintage Camper Rally at Fantasy Island Campground. The Rally Weekend starts off on Friday, Aug. 26 with bingo, campfires and trailer talk. Saturday consists of a “Tour of Homes” for those who would like to see inside the campers and share theirs. Later, winners will be announced and awards handed out for the oldest, best survivor, best custom and furthest traveled. All vintage campers of every
year, make and size are welcome for this thrilling throwback weekend. Lacie Wert ljwert@tiu11.org 717 - 247 - 0692 Aug 12-14, 2016 Big Bear Lake, Ca The vintage car rally is coming to town and you should too. Bring your vintage trailer to the Lighthouse Resort and let the vintage car show come to you. On Saturday morning coffee and donuts will be provided and in the afternoon enjoy a front row seat as hundreds of vintage cars swing on by the resort. $40/night, this rally is usually very popular and there is a waiting list so space is at a premium. Contact: Max Dobis or Lori Dobis @ (909) 866-9464 or email: lighthousemarina35@gmail.com August 10-14, 2016 Bend, OR J Bar J Ranch, 62895 Hamby Road, Bend, OR. The Bend Classic Vintage Trailer Rally will be held at the J Bar J Ranch just East of Bend, OR. Camping will be on a grassy field with the Cascade Front in full view. There is some water and110 electric but this is a ranch and not a trailer park. This is the same weekend as the HUGE Flashback Cruz car show in Bend. Proceeds will benefit the youth programs of the ranch. It is a Tin Can Tourist rally, please come and enjoy. Attendees will get a personalized branded permanent event name tag with preregistration, window placard and an “event” open/closed sign. $50 registration includes camping. Dal Smilie (dalsmilie@aol.com) with questions.
www.all-american-rally.com
August 25-28, 2016 Hiawassee, Ga. 2016 North Georgia Vintage Trailer Rally at the Riverbend Campground, Call camp ground to reserve a site at 706896-1415 Contact Pete Whitley at pete_ whitley@yahoo.com for information September 9th - 11th, 2016 Winthrop, WA Wheel Into Winthrop & Vintage Wheels - weekend after Labor Day. This is NOT a Tin Can Tourist event. Open to everyone with a vintage trailer. Vintage Trailer Enthusiast Extravaganza! A laid back gathering for folks who own vintage trailers. A great time to make new friends, show off your RV and Oooh and Ah over other other folks’ vintage RV’s, Tractors, Motorcycles, Bicycles and collectible Automobiles. On Saturday the 10th, you are welcome to show off your trailer as the public will be touring through the campground. Also, a parade of around 120 automobiles will come through the campground. Pine Near Campground, pinenearpark@gmail.com, 509-3414062 Sept 9-11 2016 Lynden, WA Mt. Baker Rally at the The Northwest Washington Fair and Event Center. 1775 Front St, Lynden, Washington 98264. We had 207 trailers at the 2015 event let’s see if we have room for a few more. The official rally is the 9-11th but you can arrive as early as the 6th. Power and water are available for most everyone. This is field camping no assigned spots. You pay and register upon
No Reservations Required - Room for Everyone! www.vintagecampertrailers.com
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arrival. Showers, restrooms and a rv dump station are on site. We will again have our Saturday swap meet and open house. Both are open to the public at no charge. Cost for attending is $20 per night and one time rally fee of $15. More details to follow later. Hosted by Brian and Melissa Morrow. September 23-25, 2016 Buellton, CA The 7th Annual Buellton Vintage Trailer Bash. Open to the first 175 vintage trailers or MoHo’s 1975 or older. If you would like to be put on the distribution list, please send David Neel, the wagonmaster, an email. David@NeelLighting. com. Join us on Facebook! “Buellton Vintage Trailer Bash.” Post pictures, communicate with friends and keep up to date on what’s happening with The Bash. It’s fun and of course, free! David@neellighting.com September 16th-18th, 2016 Honeyville, UT Crystal Hot Springs Great news! Crystal has kept our rates the same($25.00 per day) the Activity charge will be the same for the pulled pork dinner and music.$10.00 per adult and $5.00 per children under under 12. Swim and hot-pot rates will be $4.00.The area has been changed a little ,but does not effect the rally. Early booking is recommended. Booking should be made with Adam or Kaylee ONLY, Monday through Saturday. Dr. Mongo will play again by popular requests. Pot Luck Friday @ 6:00 and dinner/music @6;00 on Sat .Flea market blankets for your sell-able stuff,left
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over parts/crafts is encouraged. Open house on Sat from 10;00 am to 5;00 pm. We had a great time last year and plan on having a better one this year. Willard car show/ vintage trailer show (Sat. Only) will be in July and posted when the car show date is available. It will be in the adjacent church parking lot as before. A.Watt (Orbie) Mungall 435-730-3840 Sept 30- Oct 2 Big Bear Lake, Ca Lighthouse Resort is having its first annual Oktoberfest trailer rally. Enjoy southern California’s #1 Oktoberfest at the convention center during the day and for a nightcap beer and wine will be provided in potluck fashion. Bring a German style dish to the party (brauts, knockwurst’s etc.), drink beer and feel free to get in the Oktoberfest spirit. All spots are $50/night contact: Max Dobis or Lori Dobis at (909)866-9464 or email: lighthousemarina35@gmail.com for more info. September 30, - October 2, 2016 Newport Dunes, CA Christian Vintage Trailer Club “CVTC” Vintage Trailer Rally September 30 – October 2, 2016 For more info or to register, please email Karen Jennings at christianvintagetrailerclub@gmail.com October 13-16, 2016 Lodi, CA Trailerfest Rally 2016 “Christmas in the Trailer Park”. more info at www.trailerfestrally.com. (530) 728-0411
www.vintagecampertrailers.com
November 12-15, 2016 Charleston, SC Join us for our 3rd Annual Gathering at the Festival of Lights celebration at James Island County Park near Charleston, SC. Detailed information can be found at www.SouthernVintageTrailers.com on the events tab. We want to help promote rallies, big and small across the USA. Let us know about your rally and we’ll let other trailerites know. vintagecampertrailers@gmail.com.
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