MIMOSA VALLEY RV PARK
1931 to 1940
This decade saw manufacturers begin to make travel trailers, ranging from very small to very large. In 1936, the Curtiss Aerocar was made by Glen Curtiss, an aircraft designer. In the same year, the Airstream Trailer Co. manufactured the Clipper, with riveted aluminum resembling an airplane. It could sleep four and carried a supply of water.
In 1937, the teardrop trailer which slept two became popular. In 1938, Commander Attilio Gatti, an Italian explorer, had two “jungle yachts” made for his trips to Africa. The jungle yachts had a dining car, bar, two bedrooms, and lighting, as well as a telephone. The same company built a 50-foot, 5th-wheel semi-trailer which included an observation deck, wine cellar, and all the latest conveniences. It was sold to an Indian Maharaja.
1941 to 1950
During World War II, RV growth halted as trailers and their materials were needed for other uses. After the war was over, manufacturers again began to create innovative house cars that changed the future of RVing almost instantly. Howard Hughes, the legendary movie producer, had 8 RVs built to serve as mobile dressing rooms. They had mahogany interiors, bathrooms, a refrigerator, a stove, and air conditioners.
In 1942, the US military purchased thousands of the “Palace Expando” a revolutionary trailer that expanded on both sides and had a shower and bath. Newly enlisted men and their families were housed in these trailers.
In 1946, a fascinating motor home was built on the chassis of a Chevrolet. According to historical sources, the owner of the RV couldn’t go on vacation without being stopped by curious people.
The Shoreland Tandem Town and Country was a 30-foot-long trailer with electric fixtures and 3 rooms. In 1948, Flxible Bus Company began manufacturing custom coaches.
