here - Tin Can Tourists

Tin Can Tales
Volume X, Number 3, Spring 2012 Edition
The Tin Can Tourists is an all make and model vintage trailer and motor coach club. Its goal is to promote and
preserve vintage trailers and motor coaches through Gatherings and information exchange.
Official Colors: Black and Tan
Official Theme Song: "The More We Get Together"
Stated Objective: To Unite Fraternally All Auto Campers
Guiding Principles: Clean camps, friendliness among campers, decent behavior and to secure plenty of clean, wholesome
entertainment for those in the camps
tincantourists@gmail.com or visit www.tincantourists.com
Winter: 4 High Street Bradenton, Florida 34208
Summer: 1700 General Motors Rd, Milford, Michigan 48380
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Tin Can Tourists are on Facebook, join the group if you’re a Facebook user:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=92362365631
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Tin Can Tourists forums & member pictures at:
http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/Tin_Can_Tourists/
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You can view Tin Can Tourists pictures on Flickr:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/tbone2/collections/72157622322464027/
The Tin Can Tourists Insurance Repository is at: http://tincantourists.com/ins_entry.php
If you have not entered your insurance information, please do. It will be a valuable tool for those
that want to acquire insurance or need support material for a claim.
For years Jeri and I have tried to come up with a correct term for the position
we have with TCT. Most media people assume I am the president. We adopted “Directors” and have
used that for some time. Well I guess now that I am branded, I must be the Royal Chief.
I had considered a tattoo for some time; first thinking about one to commemorate my last head
coaching job at the school I had attended that was closing. I passed on that, but the diamond TCT stuck
in my mind and I talked to Jeri about it. Although she wasn’t enthusiastic about it, she only mildly
complained.
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When Charon and Alexander indicated that they would be attending the Winter Convention, I made
the decision to have the diamond TCT as a tattoo. Charon Kensington is a professional tattoo artist.
Charon’s art with the Royal Chief sold me and I am very happy with it.
In other news – our membership is soaring. We don’t count as members everyone that ever joined as
some groups do. If we did, our “membership” would be four or five thousand. Our membership has
grown each year, starting with a total of 50 units in 1998. For the past three years we would be around
1000 by the Annual Gathering in May. The “Dues Due” notices would go out and by July our
membership would be reduced to 700. The membership would gradually increase and the cycle would
be repeated. Not so for this May to May cycle. Our membership is currently close to 1200. It is believed
that the interest in vintage trailering has not peaked as some thought and that Terry’s work on the
website and other social media has brought a lot of people to TCT. Also, we have had a great response
to TCT events and a “word of mouth” campaign has certainly helped.
The 15th Annual Gathering is nearly sold out. There have been some glitches regarding site
reservations. Camp’s staff was either laid off for the winter or put on reduced hours, so it has not been
as easy as times past. There is an overflow area on K row, so we will be able to accommodate everyone
that wants to attend.
Forrest – Royal Chief
TCT 92nd Winter Convention February 24, 2012
Woke up this morning to a perfect temperature with the windows opened all night! After getting out of
bed, I got ready and went out to the breakfast area to eat with everyone else. After breakfast we had a
little time before we left to tour the private collection of antiques. This gave plenty of time for the
members to walk around and see everyone’s trailer. This year we have a great collection of trailers, and
more are still to arrive. Pictures of most of the trailers can be seen on the TCT Facebook page at
http://www.facebook.com/notifications#!/media/set/?set=a.10150679183870901.453302.503165900
&type=3
By 930 it was time to meet at the entrance of the park so we all could caravan to the private collection
of antiques. We arrived at a house and could see large vintage gas station signs out back from the front
of the house! We all pulled around back and parked in a large field next to a huge warehouse. Inside
the warehouse was a very large collection of ‘everything’! From Cars, signs, gas pumps, bikes, boats,
coolers, etc…. After a while we all thought we had seen it all, but then we were invited up to the house
and entered the garage with MANY more older cars from the 1920′s-1930′s and more signs, bikes, etc…
Then there was the inside of the house! There was a huge room with working vintage bar, Ice Cream
Parlor, etc.… Plus the office with even more ’stuff’! Pictures of all the collection can also be seen on our
Facebook
page
at:
http://www.facebook.com/notifications#!/media/set/?set=a.10150672648940901.452313.503165900
&type=3
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After a few hours of trying to see all there was to see, most of us headed back to the campground,
while others went out to eat for lunch. I decided to just have lunch back at the trailer and do a few
things to get the trailer ready for tomorrow’s open house. Throughout the day a few more trailers
arrived, and a few more are still to come tomorrow. As usual we also had several people come out to
view the trailers a day early. I also took time to walk around and take pictures of all the trailers that had
already arrived, which have been posted on the Tin Can Tourist’s Facebook Page.
By 5 pm it was time to head to the pavilion for our pot luck dinner. There was enough food for an
army! It was a great time to sit around and get to talk to each other; even John Culp has been able to
make it here every day since he only lives a few miles away!
After dinner we had a few hours before the music and dancing started, so we all got to sit around and
talk trailers…..this is my favorite part of the rallies!
By 7pm the music and dancing started, it was a great time that lasted well into the night.
Time for bed, should be a big day tomorrow
TCT 92nd Winter Convention at Sertoma Youth Ranch, Brooksville Florida
February 25, 2012
Very early this morning I awoke to a very cold little trailer! After a little rain around midnight, the
temperature had dropped quite a bit and I had to find my little heater. The good thing about such a
small little trailer is it does not take long at all to heat up. After the trailer was nice and warm I fell back
asleep.
By 7am I was up and getting the trailer ready for the open house. After getting the trailer ready I
headed out to the pavilion to have breakfast with all the other members. After breakfast I took the
opportunity to walk around a see some of the trailers before the open house started. There were many
great trailers at the rally; with around 60 trailers at the winter convention we had many makes and
brands. Plus this new location for the winter convention has plenty of room for us to grow, with around
200 RV sites!
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At 11am it was time for the open house to start, and it was my job to get the judges together and take
them to the trailers that were to be judge. After the judging the crowds really started to show up. Even
with the park being a little out of the way, the car count was around 150 and most cars had about 3-4
people. The show stayed fairly busy throughout the day and there were lots of people very interested
in the trailers. By 4pm the crowds were getting smaller and the clouds started to clear allowing warmer
weather to move in!
After the show there was some time before dinner to relax, so I joined John Culp and a few other
members to talk trailers and catch up on what all had been going on since we last met. Of course John
had many stories to tell, as well as a few lies. Soon it was time for dinner, so we all headed to the
pavilion for a catered BBQ dinner. The food was great and everyone was full with good food but they
all had room for Jim Heiser’s Homemade Ice cream!!!!! Jim cooked his secret Ice Cream and used a
1923 industrial Ice Cream Maker to mix it, and then froze it in large copper cans. It was AWESOME!!!!!
When dinner was over it was time to hand out the awards: Best in Show went to Lanny Webb and his
very rare 1955 Holiday built by Wally Byam, Reserve Best in Show went to John and Gail Policella with
their very cool 1964 Greenbrier Corvair Van with an upgrade camper conversion option, and Honorable
Mention went to Peg Kern’s 1963 Shasta. The “John Culp Special Interest Award” went to Don Moyer’s
1948 Spartan Coach Co Motor Coach.
Just when most thought the night was over, we had a very Special Event after dinner!!!!!!!! Alex and
Charon Kensington treated us to their excellent Sword Swallowing Act! If you have never seen their act
you are really missing out! Both are world class Sword Swallowers and really know how to put on a
show. Words cannot do it justice so you will just have to see them in person!
After the show everyone headed back to their trailers and several campfires were started and many of
us sat up for hours just talking around the campfire. Around 10pm we got a weather report that rain
was on the way and would be around through the night and into tomorrow. So many of us decided to
take down our awnings, and back most of our outside stuff so it would not be wet in the morning. By
then it was well past bed time! So time to go to bed.
February 26, 2012
Today is the day everyone heads home. This morning ended up being dry, but clouds were all around
and rain was very close. Many members were already gone by sunrise in order to beat the rain, as it
was supposed to be heavy rain all around. Thankfully I packed last night and only needed to hook up to
my truck. After hooking up my trailer I headed over to the pavilion for breakfast and to say goodbye to
all the remaining members. Wasn’t long before a few rain drops started to fall here and there, so I
made a quick trip around the campfire to find out when and where I would see everyone again and
decided I too better hit the road before the heavy rain set in.
By 8am I was on the road and heading back home on the interstate, just a few miles down the road I hit
the rain. About an hour down the road I pulled over at a rest area only to find that my front window in
the Scotty was leaking at the top! With all the very heavy rain and highway speeds, the rain was
blowing up under the front rain guard and pouring into the trailer! So I dried up the water inside,
moved the cushions to the rear, and decided to take some putty tape that I always carry for
emergencies (I have learned to be prepared with all my travel troubles!) and put the putty tape up at
the very top of the window under the rain guard (after drying it with a towel) then headed back out on
the interstate. When I pulled over a few hundred miles later it was all nice and dry inside, so it
shouldn’t be a major problem to fix later.
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Finally I made it home about an hour after lunch, and it is time for a good rest! I had a great time at the
rally, but ready for a good night’s rest!
Tim Heintz
Tin Can Tourists South Eastern Representative
1968 Serro Scotty
Southeast Regional Concours Winners (L to R)
Special Interest – ’48 Spartan Bus – Don Moyer
Best in Show – ’55 Wally Byam Holliday - Lanny Webb
Honorable Mention – ’63 Shasta Airflyte – Peg Kern
Reserve Best in Show – ’64 Corvair Greenbrier – John Policella
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’48 Spartan
’55 Wally Byam Holiday
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’63 Shasta
’64 Greenbrier
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The History of the Popup Camper Part II
By Joel Silvey
http://www.popupcamperhistory.com
In part I of The History of the Popup Camper we discussed the twilight years of the
popup camper with regards to both origin and early manufacturers. We left off at the
end of World War I, which for the United States of America lasted from April 6, 1917
until the armistice signed on November 11, 1918. Slowly throughout 1919 life in
America returned back to normal as soldiers returned home and manufacturing
returned to prewar activity. But the war changed things. Technology advanced,
especially aircraft technology. Culture began to shift from the global exposure of the
soldiers. America itself became established as a world power. All of this ushered in
what is commonly referred to as the “roaring twenties”, defined by a prosperous
economy and rapid changes in sociological mores. These changes would have a
profound effect upon the burgeoning RV industry, which World War I nearly snuffed out
in its infancy.
Demand fuels production in a free market economy. And that is exactly what happened
during the 1920’s. Earlier movements like Good Roads Movement and See America
First worked diligently to promote better roads through organized government efforts
while towns and cities along these new routes established public campgrounds within
close proximity to their town to accommodate motor tourist. By 1922 conservative
estimates placed the number of auto campers in the United States at one million, a
significant increase from just 4 years earlier.
Covering over 14 states and 700 cities the Lincoln Highway was formally
dedicated on October 31, 1913. It spanned the entire nation, from nation
from New York City to San Francisco and was known as the Main Street
across America. Early entrepreneur Carl G. Fisher was instrumental in
promoting the building of the highway.
New and improved roads, more leisure time from work, a robust economy and
improved automobile technology all resulted in the increase in auto camping, which inturn increased the demand for camping trailers. The twenties saw the emergence of
the first travel trailer designs by such well known pioneers as Glenn H. Curtis, already
famous for his aviation exploits. But these new designs were in their infancy, camping
trailers still dominated nearly all of the RV market. Some of the pioneer manufacturers
like the Auto Kamp Equipment Company survived the early years and found business
booming. Organizations like the Tin Can Tourist were founded to promote fraternity
among all auto campers.
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The Tin Can Tourists were organized in Tampa, Florida, in 1919. They
received the official state charter a year later. The groups stated objective
was “to unite fraternally all auto campers”. Their guiding principles were
clean camps, friendliness among campers, decent behavior and to secure
plenty of clean, wholesome entertainment for those in camp.
Probably the most famous manufacturer to emerge in the early twenties was Glenn H.
Curtis, mentioned above, who used his vast experience and success in the aviation
industry to bring new technology and designs to the RV industry. A smaller version of
Curtiss's travel trailer was manufactured by G. Carl Adams, Curtiss' half-brother, to
appeal to the auto camper whose budget was more limited. The Adams Trailer
Corporation, located in Hammondsport, New York, manufactured the Adams
Motorbungalo. There is some discrepancy as to the manufacturing location as Adams
Trailer Corporation was affiliated with Keuka Industries at the time. Production began
in
1921. The Adams Motorbungalo was more of a luxury trailer, costing about 3 times as
much. But it weighed about the same as a tent trailer of the time. Adams Trailer
Corporation also produced a smaller model called the Motorbungalo Junior. It
resembled more of the traditional tent trailers of the time folding flat and having a
canvas roof and walls.
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The Adams Motorbungalo Camping Trailer The East Coast of the United
States quickly caught up to the western half with manufacturers of their own with companies like F.P.
Lyons and Chenango Equipment. Both companies made their debut in 1920 with the Lyons Camp
Bungalow Trailer and the Chenango Camp Trailer. Both trailers were very well built and of complex
design. The Lyons Trailer features included a permanent roof that was raised up, permanent roof over
the wing beds that unfolded into place, semi-rigid tent walls, screen doors and a bay compartment
located at the front of the trailer. The Chenango Trailer took a different approach to the common
design of the time. They were more of a triangular shape but still featured the tent-top when folded
out. When collapsed the beds folded up, then slightly inward and the top dropped about two feet.
Both trailer designs were patented. It remains unclear how long the Lyons Trailer remained in
production but the Chenango Trailer would continue to be improved and manufactured clear into the
early 1950’s, remarkable for the time and economic conditions that would follow.
The Lyons Trailer was manufactured by F. P. Lyons Iron Works located in
Manchester, New Hampshire. The company specialized in both
structural/ornamental iron and trailers. The company started manufacturing
hauling trailers sometime during 1917 but entered the camping trailer market
during the summer of 1920.
The Chenango trailers were manufactured in Norwich, New York from 1920
until the mid-1950's.
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Located in Bay City, Michigan the Zagelmeyer Auto Camp Company was probably better
known for its Kamper Kar, considered one of the best in the 1920's. In late 1922 Frank
Zagelmeyer introduced the patented Zagelmeyer Camp Trailer. At the time it claimed to
be the lightest and most easily setup camp trailer on the market. The Zagelmeyer family
was well known in the Bay City, Michigan area as they were involved in many other
business ventures. Frank Zagelmeyer went on to patent other inventions such as a
trailer coupling.
The Gilkie Camp Trailer was introduced in 1925 and survived until 1952. Manufactured
by E. P. Gilkison & Sons out of Terre Haut, Indiana the Gilkie is one of the better known
camping trailers from this time period. Warren and Ray Gilkison were brothers who
built their first trailer in their father’s machine shop in 1922. The Gilkie was popularized
ever more when Charles Lindbergh took a trip in the spring of 1930 in one he owned.
The Gilkie trailer continued to evolve throughout its manufactured life and by 1950 it
featured a hard top that cranked up with sagless spring beds that slid out on tracks.
Better Camping Magazine awarded their 1967 Golden Hatchet Award to Warren
Gilkison’s widow, Lola.
The 1932 Gilkie Camp King sold for $395 equipped. (About $6,400 today)
Some other known camping trailer manufacturers of the 1920’s included the
Hannam, Lippman Kamprite, Hull Bungalow, Marx, Union, and the original pioneers
such as Warner and Auto Kamp. Auto Camping continued to flourish throughout the
1920’s. But then it happened. Throughout late October and early November 1929
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the stock market abruptly fell. While it enjoyed a brief recovery the market slid
again in 1931 and bottomed out in April of 1932. The effects of the stock market
crash were felt across the nation. It became very difficult for businesses to acquire
the necessary capital obtained through the credit markets for new projects and
expansions. This inevitably effected job security for the worker, which in-turn
effected demand consumption especially for non-essential goods. The Great
Depression was upon the nation and world.
Despite the economic conditions of 1929 this is the year recognized as the debut of the
travel trailer for the masses. The Covered Wagon Company began manufacturing its
travel trailer in 1929 and would continue successful operations for many years to come.
The arrival of the travel trailer had a very profound impact upon the camping trailer.
Travel trailers were gaining rapidly in popularity for the auto camper, whom by now
was referred to as a tourist. They featured solid walls and roof, built in amenities, and
overall were very luxurious. By 1933 they proved their utility in the vast array of uses
they were applied to and by 1936 250,000 had been sold. The tent trailer became the
choice of campers which remains the case even today while the travel trailer became
the choice of tourist and retirees. While many tent trailer manufacturers went out of
business during the early years of the Great Depression several new companies
emerged to take their place.
By the mid 1930’s the Travel Trailer had evolved into luxurious home-onwheels. The trailer required very little setup and could be pulled at highway
speeds of the times. Their popularity spread quickly.
In addition to the Chenango and Gilkie camping trailers the Kozy Kamp Trailer is one of
the most well-known trailers of the time. Located out of Portland, Oregon the Kozy
Kamp Trailer was specifically designed for sportsman and camping. Invented by Seth S.
Strachan the trailer was first put on the market in 1930. The trailer featured a hard top
roof and was ingeniously designed to include a two sectional table that folded outward
from one of the beds. Compact when folded down, practical and spacious when
unfolded, best describes this trailer.
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The above photos show the Kozy Kamp Trailer setup with one view of the
outside and two views of the inside showing the trailer setup for sleep and
setup for dining.
The American economy reached bottom in the winter of 1932-33 with unemployment
levels of 25%, then enjoyed four years of rapid growth. The country again experienced
a recession in 1937 that brought it back to 1934 levels of unemployment of 19% by the
end of 1938. In 1939 the nation’s employment in the private sector recovered back to
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its 1936 levels and continued to improve until the outset of World War II where it
skyrocketed from 11 million in 1940 to 18 million by 1943. The Great
Depression changed the political landscape of America and increased its national
debt. The political instability it created in Germany brought Adolf Hitler to
power in 1933. Despite the fact that world economies were recovering and
even enjoying some prosperity war broke out in Europe in 1939 and eventually
dragged the United States into the conflict on December 7, 1941. The free
economies of the world were in grave danger as nation after nation fell to Nazi
Germany. Though the United States was caught unprepared it quickly turned its
full attention to fighting the war. Most of the manufacturing was turned over to
the war effort. Travel trailers continued to be manufactured but were used to
house displaced war workers relocated to the newly built factories. The larger
mobile home concept did not yet exist. There was no time for such luxuries as
camping. Very few tent trailers were sold during these years. If so they were
from left over inventory from before the war. The war lasted until August of
1945 and the United States eventually fielded over 15 million men and women
in arms.
As today the RV industry was closely linked to the economy. Each time the
economy goes through a boom and bust cycle so does the RV industry. We’ve
seen that as recent as 2007-09. The years between the stock market crash of
1929 and the outset of World War II in late 1941 were economically challenging
years. Very little innovation took place in the camping trailer marketplace.
Instead attention was turned towards the explosive growth of the travel trailer
market. In Part III of The History of the Popup Camper we will pick up at the end
of World War II and examine the resurgence of the second camping trailer cycle.
EDITOR: If you missed the first installment of the History of the Pop-up, send me
an email requesting the winter edition of Tin Can Tales and I will send you a
copy.
tincantourists@gmail.com
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Steve Katkowski has It Bad and We Love It
My name is Steven and I’m an addict. Yes, an addict. And you know what? There is no
rehabilitation center for my kind of addiction. I’m addicted to collecting. I’ve been collecting
just about everything since I was a kid. Let’s see…that’s about 50 years now.
Although I’ve collected so many things for so many years, lately I’ve become obsessed with
vintage travel trailers. It started with a simple remark to my wife. “Wouldn’t it be neat to find
an old travel trailer and tow it with one of my antique cars? “ “Sure” she said, not knowing I’d
start looking 10 minutes later. I saw one for sale in Hemmings Motor News and called a guy
named Stuart Echols in Florida. He told me about a 35 ft 1953 Vagabond that was in new
condition that he had in his collection. I passed. Anything that sounds too good to be true,
usually is. Well, several months later I was going to visit family in Michigan and my wife
suggested going to Florida to see it. I flew out there and Stuart met me at the airport in a beat
up old Dodge van, and drove me out to an old metal storage building. Things were not looking
good at this point. He opened the door and we went in. Ever hear of the “WOW” factor??? I
couldn’t believe it. A 35 ft., canary yellow Vagabond trailer in new condition. I was
hooked. We cut a deal on a handshake, and in a few months it was home here in
California. Home… with no place to keep it.
After storing the trailer in a friend’s side yard for a few years, and storing my cars at another
friend’s house, I talked my wife into the dream garage I’ve always wanted. Well, with all that
space, I had to fill it up, right? RIGHT.
I forgot to mention that I like collecting rare items also. Ever hear of “the thrill of the
hunt?” Without any weapon other than a near empty check book and a lot of patience, I’ve
managed to put together a really neat collection of rare trailers, cars, and related
memorabilia. It’s been a blast.
I’ve gone on to turn the dream garage into a museum. Trailers, cars, camping gear, fishing
stuff, coolers, literature, lots of memorabilia. Check it out at www.vintagetrailermuseum.com I
am just in the process of building the website. it’s going to have a lot more information on it in
the coming days.
My latest addition is my second “barn find”, and I’m very excited about it. How about this? A
1940 Vagabond model 16. A Masonite sided trailer in great condition. The owner bought it
new, built a shed around it, and slept in it while he built his house on the property. And then he
left it covered under the shed for the next 72 years. You can see it on my website.
Coming soon to the website will be the story on the following:
1.
1927 Prototype never used, never off blocks for 82 years.
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2. 1938 Hayes shovel nose 19ft.
3. 1940 Vagabond model 16
4. 1950 Vagabond model 19
5. 1951 Vagabond model 232
6. 1961 Trailerboat
7. 1961 Holiday House model 17
8. 1954 Cadillac series 62 convertible.
9. 1959 Pontiac Bonneville Safari station wagon.
and many----many----- interior shots I hope you will enjoy.
And most importantly, you are all welcome to visit if you are in California
Steven and Jenay Katkowsky
www.vintagetrailermuseum.com
stevenkatkowsky@gmail.com
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Made in Michigan – 15th Annual Gathering – Milford Michigan
Terry supplied the following as a guide for the trailers and motor coaches that were
manufactured in Michigan
Alma Trailer Co. / Alma MI
American Coach Co / Cassopolis MI
Anderson Coach Co. / East Tawas MI
Avalair Corp. / Baroda MI
Avion Coach Co. /Benton Harbor MI
Beemer and Grubb Enterprises (a.k.a. Beemer) / Ortonville MI
Blix Coach Co. / White Pigeon MI
Cadillac Coach Co. Inc. / West Branch MI
Champion Home Builders Co. / Dryden MI
Chippewa Mobile Homes Corp. / Park Rapids MI
Courtly Trailer Co. Inc. / North Street MI
Cree Coaches / Marcellus MI
Dou (Part of Mid States Corp) / Union City MI
Federal Trailer Company / Detroit MI
Forrest Lakes Trailer Mfg. / Roseville MI
General Coach Works Inc. / Marlette MI
Guerdon Industries (a.k.a. Great Lakes Mobile Homes) /Marlette MI
Hiawatha Inc. / Ironwood MI
Holly Coach Co. / Holly MI
Howard Industries Inc. / Saginaw MI
Huron Industries Inc. / Marysville MI
Ironwood Trailer Company / Ironwood MI
Kozy Mobile Homes (Part of Mid-States Corp) / Kalamazoo MI
Marlette Coach Company – Kingston Enterprises / Kingston MI
Mayfair Mobile Homes Inc. / Constantine MI
Michigan Central Airlines Inc. / Flint MI
Mobile Trailer Inc. / Marysville MI
Mon-O-Coach Inc. / Ironwood MI
Mon-O-Liner (Part of Mon-O-Coach Inc.) / Ironwood MI
National Mobile Homes (Part of Mid-States Corp.) / Kalamazoo MI
New Home Coach Co. Inc. / Central Lake MI
New Moon Homes Inc. / Alma MI
Owosso Mobile Homes Inc. / Owosso MI
Palace Corp. / Flint MI
Pontiac Coach Company / Drayton Plains MI
Raymond Products Co. Inc. (a.k.a Travelo Trailers) / Saginaw MI
Regal Mobile Homes Inc. / Pinconning MI
Reliart Trailer Co. / Greenville MI
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Roycraft Coach Co. / Chesaning MI
ST Clair Custombuilt / St Clair MI
Sani-Crusier Co. / Carsonville MI
Schiebout Mfg. Co. / Grand Rapids 8 MI
Shoreline Coach Co. / Flint 7 MI
Silver Dome Company / Kalamazoo MI
Star Mobile Homes (part of Mid-States Corp.) / Union City MI
Tour-A-Home Mfg. / Flint MI
Vagabond Coach Mfg. Co. / Mew Hudson MI
Vesely Mfg. Co. (a.k.a. Apache Camping Trailers) / Lapeer MI
Westwood Products Inc. / Cassopolis MI
Wolverine Camper Co. / Gladwin MI
Additions: Cozy Coach, Macomb Trailer Coach, Zimmer, Covered Wagon, United, Royal Coach,
Apache, New Moon, Detroiter, Century, Travel-aire by Kreuger Products Inc. / Owosso MI,
United Mfg. Williamston, Michigan If you can add to this list, send it to terrybone@comcast.net
Doug took this picture of a small portion of the 2011 attendees.
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June 2012 to May 2013 Calendar
Michael Lambert has put together the popular TCT calendar the past two years. An idea for the
next calendar is to work with a “before and after” theme.
Calendar will be available at the 15th Annual Gathering – If you cannot attend, but would like
one of the calendars, send a check for $20.00 made payable to Forrest after the Annual
Gathering at the end of May.
Down the Road
2012 Events
After receiving some complaints from attendees of some of the posted rallies at our site, we felt
that we needed to designate the events that are Official TCT Gatherings.
The designation of “Official” TCT Gatherings is probably overdue. We have been promoting,
through our website, just about everything that is submitted and have not been as clear as we
should be about the events that are generated by our regional representatives and from time to
time by TCT members.
The qualifications for a listing as an official TCT Gathering will probably be modified as it is a
work in progress, but for now the following guidelines will be in place:
1. The Gathering is hosted by a Regional Representative or an active TCT member
2. TCT membership is a requirement for attendance. Membership requirements must be
clearly stated and collection of the Tin Can Tourists membership fee must be part of the
rally registration process. Note: when the staff at Camp Dearborn asked callers for site
reservations, many falsely said they were active members to secure a site thereby
getting a price break granted to TCT and preventing a member from reserving that site.
3. The Regional Representative will be the clearing house for area events and recommend
events that they feel meet the guidelines for the Official designation. The Regional
Representative should be kept informed about the event's overall organization.
4. Concourses will be limited to the Annual Gathering and Regional Rallies. TCT purchases
the awards and provides some judging guidelines and wants to keep such awards
“special” by limiting the number of such events. It is up to the Regional Representative
as to whether they want to provide a concours for attendees. Each geographical area is
unique and the Regional Representative is best suited to decide if such an activity is to
be provided.
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Designates “Official TCT Gathering”
The registration forms are all available on Rally Registration page on the site:
http://www.tincantourists.com/rallyregistration.php or select "Rally Registrations"
under Camp Office on the menu
Paypal forms will become available as the registration process is set up.
The event hosts will post downloadable forms and in some cases Paypal registration
procedures.
HELP WANTED – TCT needs someone to assist at the Red Barns
Spectacular this August and someone to work with the staff at the St. Clair
Harbor organizing the Vintage Boat and RV Show in July.
Contact Chuck Nagy regarding Red Barns – Chuck Nagy crn007@att.net Forrest for St. Clair tincantourists@gmail.com
Name of Event: 15th Annual Gathering
Brief description of event: Fun, Great Food, Open House and the North American
Vintage Trailer and Motor Coach Concours
2012 Theme – Made in Michigan – featuring trailers and motor coaches that were
manufactured in Michigan.
Date: May 17th to 20th, 2012
Location: Camp Dearborn, Milford Michigan www.campdearborn.com
Number of units allowed at event: 160 with some electric only sites for overflow
Registration procedure: Because of budget cuts and staff retirements the registration
procedure has not been finalized. As of now, we will be collecting the Annual Gathering
Registration fee and compiling a list for the Camp Staff that they will use in March to
assign sites to those that are registered. You will receive an email from TCT regarding
the finalized site selection process as soon as the information becomes available from
the Recreation Department. Since we have the entire camping area reserved the date
for site selection is not a problem. It will be later than in previous years.
We will be accepting registrations for the Annual Gathering in January 2012. A list of
registered TCT members will be sent to those that will be responsible for site
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reservations. Registration material is available at the end of the newsletter and at
www.tincantourists.com You will be notified as to when site reservations can be made.
Site reservations will probably begin after the Camp Office officially opens for the year.
Contact person – Forrest Bone at tincantourists@gmail.com or 941-302-2415
Special Thanks to Lanny Webb for his graphics work on the Winter Convention and the Annual
Gathering window signs and promotional material. Lanny will be attending the Annual Gathering
and will have T-Shirts with the “Made in Michigan” design for the 15th Annual Gathering.
4th Annual TCT Enchanted Encampment, will be held at the Turquoise Trail
Campground and RV park in scenic Cedar Crest, NM.
Located on the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway the mountain campground is 15
minutes to Albuquerque and a short commute to Santa Fe.
Dates to be May 18-20, 2011
For Registration form, agenda and more details, contact: Karen Campbell SWTCT Rep
@ karencampbellwithrt66@hotmail.com or 505-294-6000
The campground is great with trees, a museum, laundry, volleyball pit, and hiking trails
into the Sandia Mountain wilderness. Here is the web address for the Turquoise Trail
Campground: http://www.turquoisetrailcampground.com/. I will be assigning spots
after the close of registration around April 30, 2012; sending out email confirmation
letters with your space number. You need to return a reservation form to
me. Membership to TCT is required for this event.
The entry fee is: $90.00 for two, extra people are @ $20.00 each, which includes your
TCT membership or year extension of membership and 2 nights camping with hookups. Also included is a catered New Mexican Dinner on Friday night, rally fee, goodie
bag and window placard. Extra days before or after the rally are available from the
park office at a special rally rate of $20.00 per night. We have full hook-ups, water and
electric or dry camping spots. All are pull through. Everyone has access to the
bathhouses with showers, the laundry room, and pet run area. There is no charge for
dogs, but be sure and clean up after them.
Registration is available on line at www.tincantourists.com
2012 Western Canada “Tin Can Tourists” Vintage Trailer Rally
Hosted by: Susan and Gerry Measures
4376 Cliffmont Rd. North Vancouver, BC
Canada 604 929 6403 Cell 604 813 7305
tessiebear@shaw.ca
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Where: Sons of Norway Country Club - 11901 Seux Road - Mission, BC - V2V 4J1
The Sons of Norway Country Club is located in a picturesque valley just east of Mission
BC.
We have the use of their campground which has a limited number of 30amp
electric/water sites.
It also has an adjoining field for dry camping.
There are no full hookups. Trailer dump facilities are located in Mission.
We will have use of the clubhouse for both Friday and Saturday nights.
There is a restroom facility with showers.
The outdoor heated swimming pool will be available for those who like to swim.
There is wireless internet in the park.
Sightseeing and hiking in the local area.
There is a corner store for limited basic supplies, ice cream and coffee nearby.
It is recommended to stop in Mission on your way through (Safeway, Save on etc.) and
pick up any supplies you will need. (If you are coming from the USA fill your car up
before crossing the border)
Dogs are welcome as long as they are well behaved,
leashed and picked up after.
Camping is also available for extra nights if you wish to
come early or stay longer.
How to get there: Here is the link on how to get to the
campground from the United States:
http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=d&saddr=sumas+Washingto
n&daddr=11901+Seux+Rd,+Mission,+Fraser+Valley+Regio
nal+District,+British+Columbia&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=49.107225,122.26786&sspn=0.222507,0.4422&ie=UTF8&z=11
(control and click to follow
link)
When: Friday June 1st 2012
(Come earlier if you like, most come on Thursday)
Through Sunday June 3rd 2012
What is planned so far (subject to modification)
Friday: Meet & Greet Social get-together, Margarita party
Saturday: Trailer Open House, Swap Meet, Potluck Supper
Sunday: More Socializing, relaxing and packing up to go home.
How Much$$$$
$10 Rally Fee
$25 Electric and water sites for Friday and Saturday
$15 Dry Sites for Friday and Saturday
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This is a Tin Can Tourist sanctioned event. Membership renewals are due in May and
you can do it on line or with us. Forest Bone has been very generous to us in the past
and has donated half any membership monies we collect to our rally! The cost for
new/renewal is $20.00. Checkout the TCT website at: www.tincantourists.com
Important!!!!
Don’t forget that you now need either a current passport or enhanced driver’s license to
cross the Canadian/ US border.
We look forward to seeing you at the 2012 Western Canada TCT Vintage Trailer Rally.
If you have any questions or to book your spot email tessiebear@shaw.ca
June 8-10, 2012 P. J. Hoffmaster State Park
Muskegon, Michigan 50 available sites.
Final plans will be included in the spring newsletter – March 2012.
Contact: Terri L. Creeden, 231-798-3711
Vintage Camper Gathering @ P.J. Hoffmaster State Park
As spring arrives are you feeling nostalgic? Missing the “ole days” of camping as
a kid? Road trips in the RV? Sleeping ten in a trailer built for six? If so, you are invited
to camp along the lake shore, walk the wooded campsites of P.J. Hoffmaster State Park
and step back in time.
P.J. Hoffmaster State Park in Muskegon is hosting a “Vintage Camper Gathering”
and Open House, Saturday, June 9th, 2012. 11:00am – 4:00pm. Fellow campers and
visitors are welcome to walk the loops to look at vintage trailers and visit with Midwest
club members from the “Tin Can Tourists” and “Tear Jerkers.”
All reservations are welcome however, owners of vintage / unique camping equipment
who would like to join the open house are encouraged to make reservations and camp
in or near the already reserved sites of 174 thru 230.
Join the fun, reminisce, make a craft item or play an “old timey” game. Hope to see you
there!
Reservations can be made by calling the Michigan State Park Reservation System @ 1800-447-2757 or follow the web page below to make reservations on line.
http://www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?id=457&type=SPRK
This is detailed info on P.J. Hoffmaster State Park and the link to making reservations
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St. Clair Boat Harbor Vintage Boat and RV Show
Need someone to assist in arrangements and host event.
July 19-22, 20012
The Registration procedure has changed for this event. Registration will be through the
Boat Harbor office. The last we heard is that TCT participants will be charged the same
registration fee as the boat show participants – currently $30.00; optional tickets for the
Friday Night Welcome Party will be available for $10 per person; and the Sunday
breakfast tickets will be $S.00 per person.
Each registered TCT participant will receive a $15 food voucher redeemable at
participating St. Clair Restaurants.
The per night camping fee will be $15 per night

For registration information - Phone: (810) 329-4125
Email: info@stclairboatharbor.com
Address: 902 S. Second Street, St. Clair, MI 48079
Port Crescent State Park
4 Annual Vintage Camper Gathering
July 26-29th 2012
th
Port Austin Michigan
We have been invited back again! Our park rangers and the locals love to have us visit
this beautiful state park. Make plans now to attend. This year the park is holding 75
sites for us! New this year will be a Match the Classic Car with the Camper Challenge!
We will be inviting the local classic car clubs and owners to park their cars with our
trailers during the open house! We will have our classic themed potlucks, coffee
klatches, tchotchke contest and other old-school activities.
Contact John Truitt at airstreamguy@mac.com to register and pick your site (do not call
the park directly) or 313-701-8930 for more information, to register and to be put on
the Port Crescent Email List.
(http://www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?type=SPRK&id=486)
Pictures from last years gathering
http://www.flickr.com/photos/tbone2/sets/72157627383958770/
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Brief Description of Event: 5th Annual Northeast rally at Sampson State Park in
the heart of the Finger lakes region of upstate New York. Fees include; all camping,
pizza and wine new member reception, chili and mac and cheese cook off, live music,
dish to pass supper featuring a pulled bar-b-que, public open house and concours
trailer judging.
Date:
Location:
Number of Units:
Registration
Procedure:
Contact Person(s)
September 13th-16th 2012
Sampson State Park
6096 Rt. 96A
Romulus, NY 14541
52 electric only – ONLY 4 SITES REMAINING AS OF 3/21/2012
Registration forms posted at the site and in the TCT newsletters
Fletch@vintagekingpins.com or Denise@vintagekingpins.com
12th Annual Mt. Baker Vintage Trailer Rally
Sept. 6-9, 2012
Although not an official TCT Gathering, the Ewing’s are Regional Representatives for the
North West and have held this event for the last 11 years.
Come join us for our twelfth rally being held in at the Northwest Washington
Fairgrounds in Lynden Washington. You can arrive as early as Tuesday the 4th of
September. No pre-reservations are required.
Our vintage trailer rally is open to all trailers & motor homes 25 years old & older. Folks
with newer rigs - but love older vintage units are welcome as well. The newer rigs will
be parked to one side as this year we’ll strive to park all vintage vehicles & trailers
together.
The camping area is grass. We have a very nice meeting room and plenty of
power/water sites with a dump station on the grounds. Our rally location has plenty of
no cost good warm showers and clean restrooms.
The quaint town of ....Lynden...., WA has a Dutch theme with many little shops to
explore. There should still be plenty of garage sales on the weekend as well. There are
numerous restaurants and banks, some within walking distance of the rally. Close by
are auto & RV parts stores, hardware stores, grocery, etc.
The last few years we’ve had 100 or more units in attendance. Over time we’ve been
getting some very excellent older units attending. From the 1930’s, 1940’s, 1950’s and
newer are the units. Many are very nicely restored both inside and out with period
furnishings.
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We also welcome those vintage trailers that are “Works in Progress” as “Come As You
Are”.
Many tow vehicles are older, restored rigs as well.
Friday night we have a potluck dinner where everyone brings a dish (main, salad or
dessert).
Saturday night we have a dessert social where everyone brings a dessert to share.
Saturday there will be a swap meet/flea market in the meeting hall. Bring any trailer,
household, craft or other items to sell that might need a new home.
The rally fee is $25.00 per unit. All camping is $18.00 per night, dry and/or
water/power hookup. There are few trees so bring your own shade, awning, etc. Those
with air conditioning
should be able to run them as needed as there are 30/50 amp power sites. Those who
want power and water please bring a power splitter, extension cord and a Y for your
water hose.
Bring your own outdoor table & chairs if you can. Pets are welcome but need to be
kept on a leash, picked up after and not brought into our meeting building during rally
functions. Please make sure your pet stays within your own campsite when tied out so
they can’t reach other’s campsites and cause mischief.
Directions: From the south take I-5 to exit 256 in Bellingham, Washington. Head north
on the Guide Meridian about 8 miles until you get to Lynden. Turn right onto Front
Street and within a mile you’ll see the Fairgrounds on your right. From the north it’s
easiest to take the Lynden border crossing. Drive south on the Guide Meridian until you
get to Front Street in Lynden and take a left.
Any questions please contact Pat or Joanne Ewing at (360) 966-4253 or e-mail at
pre47airstream@aol.com.
Fall Gathering – Camp Dearborn, Milford Michigan – September 27-30, 2012.
Site reservations can be made for the Fall Gathering on the same day you make your
reservation for the Annual Gathering.
Registration forms for the Fall Gathering will be available in the Summer Newsletter.
Additional Information – tincantourists@gmail.com
28
TCT Petaluma Rally Oct 5-7, 2012!!
We shall have a Caravan thru Historic Downtown Petaluma (lead by me) to the rally
site. Details to follow!! -Contact person(s) Penny Cotter and Wendy Nelson
California Rally – October 5th through 7th at the KOA in Petaluma California – details to
be out soon. For additional information contact Penny Cotter at
auntpenny06@yahoo.com or Wendy Nelson vintagealuminum@yahoo.com
Koreshan Unity Settlement Gathering and Show
November 1-4, 2012 – Details to follow (First weekend rather than the second as
previous year)
93rd Winter Convention – February 21-24, 2013
Sertoma Youth Ranch – Brooksville, Florida Registration Procedure will be included
in the Fall and Winter Newsletter
TCT Got the Blues – December 1st
Any interest in this? – If there is enough interest I will put
together a weekend of camping and attendance.
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TIN CAN TOURISTS INVITED TO 2013 FLORIDA RV
SUPERSHOW!!!
The 2013 Florida RV SuperShow, January 16-20 at the Florida State Fairgrounds in
Tampa, is interested in having the Tin Can Tourists stay on the grounds during next
year’s show. You would be given an electric hook-up and be able to take part in all the
Super Rally activities. These include:
-
3 Nights of entertainment and refreshments
Coffee and donuts each morning
Unlimited access into the SuperShow
In exchange, we would like to have you help us with media interviews and other public
relations events. This would give your club and coach a lot of exposure!
In addition, RVIA has announced that it will host the 2nd Recreation Vehicle World
Conference. This global gathering of RV companies and organizations is scheduled to
take place Jan. 17 - 20, 2013 in conjunction with the Florida RV SuperShow in Tampa,
Fla.
Since the first Recreation World Conference was held in Dusseldorf, Germany in 2008,
the RV industry has continued to become even more global in nature. In addition to
the established RV markets in North America, Europe and Australia, there are now
emerging markets in China, South America and South Africa.
RVIA is in the process of developing an informative and entertaining conference agenda
that will give participants the opportunity to share information and statistics, discuss
technical and standards issues, and explore how RV companies can work together in an
increasingly inter-connected world market.
In addition to compelling keynote speakers, there will also be visits to the Florida RV
SuperShow and Lazydays RV Super Center, the world’s largest RV dealership. There will
also be social events where participants can network and build relationships.
More information will follow, but mark these dates on your calendars!! Thank you for
helping us promote the SuperShow and the RV lifestyle!!
Email Forrest Bone – tincantourists@gmail.com if interested in this event.
30
Winter Convention – February 21-24, 2013
Details and registration procedure will be included in the winter edition of
Tin Can Tales
16th Annual Gathering – May 16-19, 2013
Details and registration procedure will be included in the winter edition of
Tin Can Tales
Lincoln Highway Centennial Celebration - 2013
The centennial celebration will occur in 2013. Car caravans will embark from Time’s Square in
the east and Lincoln Park, San Francisco from the west. We would like to participate with
vintage trailers and motor coaches. We attempted to get volunteers from the membership to
assist us in developing a Caravan. Very few people stepped up to volunteer, but we are moving
forward. We may be able to develop something from east to west. Current plan is to depart
from Hayesville, Ohio and travel about 150 miles per day giving everyone an opportunity to see
the sites and examine the Historic Lincoln Highway. We will do some pre-scouting this summer
arranging for overnight camping and finalizing the route and daily destinations. Our ultimate
goal will be Kearney, Nebraska on Sunday, July 1st. The celebration will continue in Kearney
through July 4th.
We Get Letters
Hi Terry,
I just wanted to let you know how happy I am that I placed a banner ad on TCT website!
Someone saw the banner and it took them to my blog, where they then saw the ad for the 63
Shasta Compact I had for sale. They contacted me and drove out from Minnesota and bought it!
I'm thrilled to know that folks are seeing the banner ad and finding their way to my blog.
Granted, selling trailers isn't my main thing as that was just a fluke, but I'm tickled none the less
that, that is how the buyer found my blog.
Kelle
Dear Forrest,
Don and I attended the open house, sorry I never met you, however we met
some great folks and saw some awesome campers. Everyone was friendly,
informative and happy to share information about their units. We gained
31
some great insight to the passion of vintage campers. These campers love and
live their hobby.
We got some great ideas of what to do or is possible to do. Our little Layton is
a work in progress, she looks decent on the outside but definitely had some
work to be done inside. Once we decide to get our lady ready for the showing,
we will look forward to attending one of the events. I included a picture of
ours, is this considered a canned ham?
Thank you for keeping us informed of the events.
Sincerely,
Larry Fowler
Don Wilcox
Hi Forrest,
I just wanted to send an update and let you know that Rudolph chose our Scotty for the
commercial. My dad drove it over last night and they filmed it this morning. I'll post some
photos up on the tin can tourist fan page.
32
They were very kind. They put my mom and dad up in a hotel for the night, since the production
was so early. They only needed it for one day, but paid $600 for the use of it for the day. They
were very accommodating to my mom and dad while they waited for the production to
complete.
My mom and dad had a blast watching it.
Thanks for sending the notice out!
Brian
ED: The Trailer was selected or an ad campaign in Miami. We sent out a notice and Brian
replied.
Dear Sir! Forrest and Mom. Jeri Bone .
It is Great honor the NEWS from you and,,,I guess ,It is larger than me.
Anyway,,,I am doing "all " Vintage trailer or Rv Business in JAPAN.
It is small "profit money" but It is great "FUN"
MAny young people would love the Vintage RV from USA!
Please see this Pics...
It is one Guy who loved the Airstream in southern ISLAND "OGASAWARA"
It is near Island of IWAOJIMA,,,battele field at WW2 in Pacific ocean.
He owned Cafe and his Little Farm of Coffee.
It is most "cool"cafe in JAPAN....but "Hot island"
OKAY Please keep in touch!
I am doing "deducate AIRSTREAM room" for renting room for victims of tsunami.
LAst pic is SENDAI suffered area.
OKAY BEST REGARDS!!
Hiroshi Okamoto -
33
Forrest,
Thank you very much for an excellent rally; we know you didn't do it all, but
you sure know how to put things together!
If this weekend's rally is any indication of the fun and camaraderie that takes
place, we will surely take part in many more of them. It is inspiring to note
how friendly everyone can be and we SO liked your Annual Meeting agenda
and its swift opening and closing. We have to try that at a Cape Cod Mass.
Unit Airstream Club Annual Meeting and see if it flies......I tend to doubt it.
Take care and we'll see you down the road.
Thanks,
Rich & Dottie Walbridge
--
Hello there, TCT.
Thank you so much for a letting me put my vintage trailer up in your classifieds section. What a wonderful
and easily accessible service you provide. I sold it in 12 hours!
34
I cannot figure out how to mark the ad with red SOLD! that I see in other ads. Would you please send me
a link to directions for the at function?
Thanks so much. The ad was for 1970 Serro Scotty. Went up March 4th, sold it March 5th and still getting
dozens of calls/emails.
Also, where can I send a small donation to show my appreciation?
My best.
Carol Jeanotilla
Rear View Mirror
Tin Can Tourists' loved Jacksonville By The Jacksonville Times-Union
Thirty bucks was a lot of cabbage for a can of sauerkraut.>It was gladly paid in January 1921, for a
special can of 'kraut.>The premium was on the sum of its parts. It had great sentimental value, so to
speak.>''Tin Can Tourists'' assembled north of Jacksonville the winter of 1921. The opening of the
Jacksonville bridge across the St. Johns would open a lush vista of Florida that lay beyond the river.>Like
a big magnet, Jacksonville pulled the Tin Cans, the auto tourists of the day.>The Tin Can crowd put a
new face on vagabonding after the Great War.>Automobile trailer tourism was somewhat a luxury. Not
unlike RV life of today, perhaps, but a lot more primitive. It was a novelty, an adventure. One never
knew what was around the bend.>Automobiles themselves had not been around that long. Roads were
routes of chance. There were no motels. Hardly any billboards. Not even Waffle Houses, if you can
imagine such a thing.>Ever on the cutting edge, Jacksonville had set up a Tin Can Tourist Park.>The park
was yonder out Main Street, west of the fair grounds.>W.D. Flynn was superintendent. He ran a tight
ship, by contemporary accounts.>Campers gave the Jacksonville park high marks, The Florida TimesUnion said.>''Jacksonville has a warm place in their hearts. Many declared they had sent dozens of
letters and post cards to friends in other camps or back home, urging them to come here and accept the
hospitality of Jacksonville.''>The can of sauerkraut entered legend when newcomers were initiated into
the camp's ad hoc grand fraternal order.>Following a festive and ritual wiener roast, the newcomers
were entitled to the Grand Emblem of the Jacksonville Camp of Tin Can Tourists.>Sadly there was no
emblem.>The can of sauerkraut would suffice.>It was the last of several from the wiener roast.>The
group conscience decided to raffle off this last can.>A kid bought it for 50 cents.>''Not enough,'' he
exclaimed. ''Who's got sporting blood?''>The kid got $1.50 for the can, from a lady from Los Angeles.
She put it up again.>Another initiate bid $5; he wanted to put the can on his radiator cap.>Flynn
suggested half a can would make just as good an emblem on the radiator cap.>An auction commenced
for the second half.>A guy from Peoria bought it for $11.>Then they sold the 'kraut and the label. The
kid's mother bought them, for $10.>''I'll put this under glass and keep it as a souvenir of the most
enjoyable winter I ever spent,'' she said.>''After the can, contents and label were disposed of, it was
discovered the one container of 'kraut had brought the organization $30, believed to be a record price
for such a commodity,'' the Times-Union said.>Flynn told the initiates the Tin Can Tourist must possess
three requisites:>''To be able to ride and stick with anything that wiggles, slides or rolls, to be able to
always find one's way about and to make a home wherever one may be and, last, to prove a good
fellow, able to entertain and be entertained.''>
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Tin Can Tourists Helped Boost Sarasota Economy
Author: Ann A. Shank, former County Historian
Source: Sarasota County History Center
Photo Credit: Sarasota County History Center
The Tin Can Tourists of the World organized at DeSoto Park in Tampa after World
War I and had a major impact on tourism in Sarasota, especially in the 1930s. Their
membership card listed their purposes: to unite fraternally all auto campers, to provide
clean and wholesome entertainment at all campfires and to help enforce the rules
governing all camp grounds. Their emblem was a tin can worn on the front of the car.
A local group of Tin Can Tourists organized in January 1921 with eleven members. The
title of their presiding officer was "Chief Tin Can Opener." While Tin Canners came to
Sarasota during the 1920s, staying in a number of auto camps around the city, it was not
until 1932 that Sarasota hosted the winter convention of the TCT.
In 1931 Mayor E.A. Smith and other community leaders decided to lure the annual TCT
convention away from Arcadia, where it had been conducted for a number of years. A
motorcade of nearly 250 cars drove from Sarasota to Arcadia, parking in the camp.
Carrying banners inviting the TCT to Sarasota, community leaders distributed free
copies of the Sarasota Herald and gave speeches promoting the change in venue. The
Sarasota Bay Post 30 American Legion Band presented a concert to the 2,000 campers.
When the vote was counted, Sarasota had won the contest.
From 1932 to 1938 the winter TCT convention met in Sarasota, just east of the Payne
Park ball field. Several thousand campers attended each year and participated in a
variety of activities. The annual TCT parade along Main Street included trailers from the
modern to the historic, floats representing the camper's home states, clowns and a
number of bands.
While business meetings were scheduled several times during the week, more time was
devoted t having fun. There were horseshoe and shuffleboard contests, baseball, boxing,
36
wrestling and field sports. For those who preferred to sit, there were competitions in
bridge, 500 and pinochle.
The TCT prided itself on the high standards of conduct for its members. Rules in their
camps prohibited the use of liquor, firearms, open fires, vile language or disorderly
conduct. Dishwater was not to be thrown on or around shrubbery. Quiet was kept
between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Although the "tin can" name had been considered a joke by both the members and
public in the organization's early days, by the time the Tin Canners met in Sarasota, the
name was taken seriously. Not only did it stand for tourists who cared for their camps, it
also represented people who contributed much to the local economy. Businesses placed
large display ads in the Sarasota Herald during the TCT convention and the Sarasota
Merchants Association offered free bus shuttle service between the TCT grounds and
Five Points.
Although the TCT is no longer around, Payne Park continued to invite and attract the
tourist and resident alike. For many years, Payne Park was home to the Sarasota Mobile
Home Park, a hub of activity for east and central Sarasota. The mobile home park was
closed several years ago, and in 2008, Payne Park reopened with much fanfare as an
extensive recreational park, delighting visitors and residents alike.
37
Notice: Insurance Database
Please, Please, Please we need input
After an accident involving a rear end collision the owner of the Bowlus needed to
acquire information about value and we were to send letters to insurance
companies attempting to reach a settlement. How nice it would have been if we
could have had information from our database that would could have been used to
support value based on the information we had from owners of similar trailers.
We have set up the insurance database to help the insured members of TCT deal
with claims more efficiently. Please help the membership out by providing
information all of us might have to use.
We set up an insurance database at: http://tincantourists.com/ins_entry.php
The purpose of this database is for TCT members to be able to provide information to
prospective insurance companies regarding “agreed value” or to assist you in dealing with an
appraiser for a letter to an insurance company either for obtaining coverage or making a claim.
The data base is only as good as the quality and quantity of the information that has
been entered.
To be helpful there needs be many more records entered.
Be sure to read on – important.
38
Hi Forrest,
It is important for vintage trailer owners to realize that most all insurance companies out there
have 'stated value' and NOT agreed value. ANPAC is working on a Vintage policy, hopefully
we'll see it sometime next year.
It will be 'agreed value', but until then, owners need to keep all records and alot of pictures of
their trailers. It would be wise to have a album with all info in the Vintage trailer and keep it in
a safe place to show proof of condition. ANPAC understands the value of these vintage trailers
and with proper documentation will honor value to put a damaged
trailer back to prior condition if damaged.
ANPAC is excited about this market and will do everything possible to work with clients.
Thanks!
Jannie Van Tassel, Multi-Line Agent
Oregon, Washington, Arizona(Life)
American National Insurance Company
P.O. Box 549
Redmond, OR 97756
(541) 504-7524 Office
(541) 420-6340 Cell
(541) 548-0935 Fax
jannie.vt@hotmail.com
jannie.vt@american-national.com
Attitude Is Everything!
Have a truly great day!
39
TCT Campground Friendly Program
This program is growing - make a recommendation
This program allows select and member referred campgrounds to express their support
of vintage trailers and motor coaches by joining TCT and listing their campground as a "Tin
Can Tourists’ Friendly" facility.
By enrolling and becoming members, you are expressing your support of our stated goal
"the promotion and preservation of vintage trailers and motor coaches." Campgrounds will do
this by supporting TCT and by encouraging owners of vintage rigs to patronize their
campgrounds. This support will buck the current trend noted in a recent Trailer Life magazine
that discussed that a number of parks are not allowing coaches over 12 years old to camp at
their facilities and that some campgrounds are available for Class "A" motorhomes, only. We
became aware of such practices shortly after TCT was renewed in 1998, but restrictive camps
are currently increasing at an alarming rate.
TCT is taking an active role in the identification of vintage friendly campgrounds because
the original Tin Canners experienced this type of discrimination at municipal parks across the US
during the late 1920’s through the 1930’s.
By joining TCT as a vintage friendly campground, your location and amenities will be
accessible to all website visitors via a directory. A regular Tin Can Tale’s newsletter feature will
spotlight a member campground.
TCT Friendly Directory
For additional information, email f23bone@earthlink.net or call Forrest or Jeri at 941302-2415.
Campground Membership dues are $30.00 - Members receive TCT Friendly membership
club decal (pictured below), laminated membership/ID cards, quarterly newsletter, and TCT
chronology from 1919 to the present.
TCT Friendly Campground Mail in Application
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Registration for TCT Friendly Campground is $30.00
We'll send you an email to get campground information for the directory.
Sign up your favorite campground and receive an additional year added to your
membership.
Submissions Wanted
If you have something that you think might be of interest to TCT members.
Please submit it for possible inclusion in future newsletters. Stories about
restoration projects, trips, recollections, etc. would be of interest.
The Tin Can Tourists held summer reunions at Traverse City for a number of
years. We need someone to dig deep and see what we can find out about the
reunions - Contact the Traverse Area District Library at www.tadl.net or call 231932-8500. These articles would be available only from microfilm at the library.
Additional contact:
Alison Widmer - Traverse City Record-Eagle - 120 W. Front St.
Traverse City, MI 49684 - (231) 933-1505 - awidmer@record-eagle.com
The following pages contain registration forms for Koreshan, Cedar Key and the
Winter Convention. Paypal registration is available for many TCT events at
www.tincantourists.com
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Tin Can Tourists
15th Annual Gathering Registration Form
Camp Dearborn, Milford MI - May 17th – May 20th, 2012
Registration Information:
Last Name ________________________
First: His) ________________Hers)_________________________
Address ______________________City ______________State____ Zip_____
Email: _____________________________ Phone: ______________________
Number of Additional Guests or Children: ____________
Trailer/Motor Coach that you will be bringing to the Annual Gathering
YEAR ______ Make ________________ Model_________________
Was this RV made in Michigan? YES
NO
If “YES” – name of manufacturer and location of production facility.
The Concours is a very competitive judging of trailers 25 years or older and motor
coaches 20 years or older. A meeting will be held on Friday, May 18th for those interested
in entering the North American Vintage Trailer and Motor Coach Concours.
Registration Fee $120.00 for two adults includes Annual Membership, Window Sign, Rally Plaque,
Entertainment, Crock Pot Thursday, Mexican Fiesta, Fellowship Banquet, Morning Coffee, Breakfast
Buffet, and meeting tent.
Registration for One Adult is $90.00
Add $30.00 for each additional guest or child 10 or older
Note: your registration fee does not cover a camping site. You will
be notified as to when to call Camp and reserve a site. Electric only
and full hook-up sites will be available. We have the entire
campground reserved, so getting a site will not be a problem.
After May 1st add a $30.00 late registration fee
Total amount of check _____________________
Send this application along with your Check made payable to: FORREST BONE – to 4 High Street,
Bradenton, Florida 34208 – After April 15: 1700 General Motor Road, Milford, Michigan
48380
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Tin Can Tourist-Cedar Crest, New Mexico
Enchanted Encampment 4th annual SW Rally May 18-20, 2012
Registration Form
I’m glad you want to attend the upcoming Tin Can Tourist – Cedar Crest Rally. The
campground is great with trees, a museum, laundry, volleyball pit, and hiking trails into the
Sandia Mountain wilderness. Here is the web address for the Turquoise Trail Campground:
http://www.turquoisetrailcampground.com/. I will be assigning spots after the close of
registration around April 30, 2012; sending out email confirmation letters with your space
number. You need to send this reservation form to me, (address below) not the park, to attend
this rally. Membership to TCT is required for this event.
The entry fee is: $90.00 for two, extra people are @ $20.00 each, which includes your TCT
membership or year extension of membership and 2 nights camping with hook-ups. Also
included is a catered New Mexican Dinner on Friday night, rally fee, goodie bag and window
placard. Extra days before or after the rally are available from the park office at a special rally
rate of $20.00 per night. We have full hook-ups, water and electric or dry camping spots. All are
pull through. Everyone has access to the bathhouses with showers, the laundry room, and pet
run area. There is no charge for dogs, but be sure and clean up after them. Make your check or
money order out to me and fill in this form. Mail both to: Karen Campbell, TCT Rally, 8111
Morrow Rd NE, d Albuquerque, NM 87110. My home number is: 505-294-6000 and cell 505620-5276, if you have any questions about anything.
NAME(S): His)_____________________________Hers)___________________________
Number of additional guest or Children:_________________________________________
MAILING ADDRESS:_______________________________________________________
CITY:_____________________STATE:____________ZIP:______Phone #______________
EMAIL ADDRESS:_____________________________________________
RV TYPE/make: ____________________________Length with tow vehicle: ______________
Year: __________
SLIDE: Yes or NO
Hook-Ups requested: Full_______ Water/Electric only________ Dry_________
Anything else? ________________________________________________
TENTATIVE AGENDA
Friday: Set up and free time. PM: Get acquainted catered Mexican dinner; bring your cocktails/drinks
Saturday: Show and shine and swap meet, from 10-3, set your items out for sale. Retro pot luck dinner,
bring your favorite dish to share. Then we can sit around the communal campfire and share trailer stories.
Maybe a trailer trash gift exchange, bring one or two trailer related wrapped items, and take something
different home. .
Sunday: Sleep in, explore the Turquoise Trail/ Albuquerque area sights-stay another day, or pack up at
your leisure.
Things you might not want to forget: sunscreen – weather should be around 90ish, cool at night, chairs
for around the campfire, and a gift exchange item- preferably trailer/camper related. Paypal me at:
Campbelltruckworks@hotmail.com and email return of registration form. Thank you
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