Can you tell us about how you got into the vintage trailer hobby?
We’ve always been drawn to vintage and antique items and restoring and repurposing things has been a hobby. This has included many small and large items to decorate our home etc. John’s also a classic car buff, having owned and restored several cars and trucks. As we began nearing retirement, dreams of hitting the open road to explore America were frequently discussed. Until recently we owned a 1965 Ford F100 and we talked of driving it on these trips, so the idea of pulling a vintage camper made perfect sense!
About 2 years ago the search began, and we located our camper via Craigslist. It was in need of restoration, and the price was right. We dragged it home and John began tearing it apart. It wasn’t a basket case, but it needed lots of love. All the rotted frame wood was replaced, it received new insulation, 110 wiring, tires, bearings, all windows refurbished, new interior wood, flooring, etc. We reconfigured the interior slightly to make room for a bigger bed, recovered seating, and other treatments. The outer skins are original, but John stripped the paint, applied some new stripping, and we ordered her some new wings to make her complete.
What type of trailers have you owned and what do you have now? What is your dream vintage trailer?
In the past, the only trailer was a pop-up camper. Right now our 1959 Shasta is our dream trailer, but we’re very fond of vintage Airstreams so you never know.
What do you tow with?
Originally it was a 1965 Ford F100 but plans changed and we currently tow with a 2021 Willy’s Jeep Wrangler.
Do you attend rallies and what do you like the most about attending a rally?
Being brand new to the vintage camper scene, the 2021 Fall Gathering will be our first Rally! We’re looking forward to the corn hole tournament and the party of course, and meeting new friends.
Why did you decide to join the Tin Can Tourists?
We met a couple at a vintage car show a few years ago that mentioned the TCT and after doing a little research it seemed like a great group to join to learn about and enjoy the vintage camper experience.
What are your camping plans for this year?
Since we just finished getting the camper road-worthy, we plan on staying local to make sure all the bugs are worked out. But next year the plan is Route 66 out to California!
Instagram Accounts are:
John @john_fired22
Amy @lifezemplified