When the Seattle World’s Fair opened its gates in 1962—an event themed around a confident, atomic-era vision of “Century 21”—visitors were surrounded by architecture and innovation that celebrated the Space Age. Amid the monorails, the Space Needle, and exhibits predicting life in the year 2000, a small fleet of uniquely styled trailers also quietly made their mark. These were the 1962 Aloha trailers, specially built for the fair and used as temporary lodging before being sold to the public.
Roughly 200 of these trailers were produced for Expo 62, each with a look that fit right in with the era’s fascination with futuristic travel and streamlined design. Today, only a handful survive—and just a few of those have found their way back to their original glory.
A Pair of Rare Icons, Brought Back to Life
Vintage trailer restorer David Northcraft has had many special projects over the years, but restoring not one, but two of these historic Aloha trailers was a standout experience. These trailers represent an unusual moment in history where mid-century design, tourism, and Space Age optimism intersected in a way that could only have happened in 1962.
Out of the approximately 200 originally built, only two fully restored examples are confirmed today—both restored by David. One additional trailer may still exist, though its location is unknown. And just six other unrestored versions are documented anywhere. That makes David’s restorations incredibly significant pieces of vintage trailer history.
Aloha: More Than a Name
The Aloha Trailer Company didn’t pick its name lightly. While many people know “Aloha” as a greeting, the word carries a much deeper meaning in Hawaiian culture—one rooted in love, peace, compassion, and an overall spirit of connection.
These 1962 models reflect that sense of intention and care. They weren’t just built as temporary housing for the fair; they were designed to be warm, stylish, inviting spaces with a distinctly modern flair.
Craftsmanship That Started With a Block of Wood
The original shape and charm of the Aloha trailers didn’t happen by accident. Glenn Gordon, owner of the Aloha Trailer Company, carved a model of the trailer by hand from a block of wood to use as a template for his builders. His inspiration came from the stylish, forward-thinking design of the Holiday House—another iconic trailer of the period known for its sleek, futuristic silhouette.
That personal touch became part of the Aloha brand’s heritage, and it’s something David honored carefully as he brought these rare pieces back to life. The close-up details in his restorations highlight the same level of craftsmanship and pride that Glenn poured into the originals.
Restorations Built on Skill—and Friendship
One of the restored trailers, finished in a striking salmon color, belongs to Ed and Kathy O’Malley. Their trailer has become a showpiece at rallies and gatherings, drawing attention not only for its rarity but for the care that went into its revival.
David often says he feels lucky—or blessed—to have customers who become friends. Projects like these, with their deep history and the connections formed along the way, are exactly what make the vintage trailer community so special.
A Living Piece of the Space Age
The 1962 Aloha trailers are more than restored campers—they’re rolling artifacts from a moment when America was looking toward the stars, imagining a bold future full of new ideas and modern design. Thanks to passionate craftsmen like David Northcraft, and owners who appreciate the legacy behind these tiny time capsules, these rare survivors continue to celebrate that spirit of adventure more than 60 years later.
If you ever spot a salmon-colored 1962 Aloha at a rally, or one of David’s other restorations, take a moment to admire the details. You’re looking at a piece of World’s Fair history—reborn and better than ever.
