After more than twenty years of vintage trailering, some decisions are harder than others. This one certainly was. The owners of this 1947 Spartan Manor have decided it’s time to pass along a trailer that has been a true labor of love—and a trusted travel companion—for two decades.
Purchased in 2003 in largely untouched condition, the Spartan was carefully taken apart and rebuilt with two guiding principles in mind: strength and originality. Over the course of three years, every system and surface was thoughtfully addressed before it ever returned to the road. Originally built by the Spartan Aircraft Company in the years following World War II, these trailers were designed as housing for young couples and constructed with the same attention to detail found in aircraft manufacturing. At 25 feet from jack to taillights, this Manor represents one of Spartan’s most iconic designs.
The restoration honored the trailer’s historic materials and layout. Original woodwork was refinished wherever possible, with select replacements done in kind. Mahogany lines the observation lounge and bedroom, while birch was retained in the kitchen and ceilings. Cabinets and closets were rebuilt and refinished, original hardware was cleaned and re-chromed, aluminum counters polished, and original windows, locks, lights, vents, and fixtures restored to working order. Even the awning, screen doors, and dining table remain true to the trailer’s original character. The exterior aluminum has been polished multiple times over the years, most recently by professionals, and the floor was finished with Marmoleum in a historically appropriate pattern.
At the same time, the trailer was upgraded to be a confident, road-ready traveler. The chassis was reinforced, the subfloor replaced with marine-grade plywood, and modern water, electrical, solar, and braking systems installed. With generous tank capacities, off-grid solar power, upgraded axle and hitch equipment, and a fully renewed electrical system, this Spartan was set up to travel comfortably and reliably. It was designed to be lived in, not just admired.
Inside, the trailer is fully furnished and equipped, right down to kitchenware, linens, outdoor furniture, and travel gear. The owners also kept extensive documentation—manuals, spec sheets, and records of the work completed—which will go with the trailer. There’s even flexibility for the next owner to adapt the space further, whether that means adding a small bathroom, entertainment features, or climate upgrades.
This is one of those rare vintage trailers where the story, the craftsmanship, and the usability all come together. For those who want to see the full listing, detailed photos, and additional information about purchasing this Spartan Manor, you can find more by clicking here.
