1946 - 1959
A handful of manufacturers from the early years survived the Great Depression of the 1930's and World War II, which brought about dramatic changes both culturally and technologically. By the 1950's they too had disapeared from the tent trailer scene. But others took their place with new ideas and new technologies discovered during the war years, like plastic and fiberglass.
There were very few manufacturers of tent trailers in the late 1940's and early 1950's. Often it was cheaper and easier to build your own, and many people did just that. Articles in magazines were written with detailed instructions on building your own tent trailer. Popular Mechanics ran two articles in May and June 1954, click here to read Family Camping Trailer (both articles included). Not to be left behind Popular Science did an article in June 1955, Tent Trailer Opens Like An Umbrella. In March and April of 1959 Popular Mechanics ran two new articles, Your Vacation Home. By 1959 several of the major manufacturers of the next 20 years had started mass production and soon the do-it-yourself tent trailer kits lost popularity as prices came down.
From this point onwards many of the manufacturers also built travel trailers and other camping vehicles. Often times a manufacturer would get their start by building tent trailers. Each of these manufacturer's story is very unique and fascinating, one could easily write a book. Much research was carried out. Tracing their roots wasn't an easy task. Like most manufacturers they were too busy to stop and document their story. But little-by-little their stories came together. Of course any additional information and especially brochures would be greatly appreciated.
Known Manufacturers
• Bethany Fellowship, Inc.
• Dor-Lee Products
• E-Z Kamper
• Heilite Trailers, Inc.
• Higgins, Inc.
• Hille Engineering (Ranger)
• Karriall Kamper
• Sportrailer Manufacturing
• Vesely Company (Apache)
• Ward Manufacturing (Nimrod)
• Ward Manufacturing (Wayfarer)