For Clayton Brown of Central Point, Oregon, vintage isn’t just a hobby- it’s a way of life. His standout combination of a beautifully reworked 1949 Ford sedan paired with a 1951 Nashua travel trailer captures the spirit of mid-century road travel in a way few rigs can.
Clayton’s Ford began as a classic 1950s-style cruiser, already outfitted with a V8 engine, automatic transmission, tuck-and-roll upholstery, faux side pipes, spotlights, whitewall tires, and Dodge Polara spinner hubcaps. While it looked the part, it still handled like a car from another era. Wanting modern drivability without sacrificing vintage appeal, Clayton brought it into his son-in-law’s hot rod shop for a major transformation.
The result is a seamless blend of old and new. The original frame was modified at the firewall and fitted with a Fat Man front clip, along with rack-and-pinion steering, front disc brakes, a roll bar, and coil-over suspension. Today, the car drives with the comfort and confidence of a modern vehicle- while still turning heads with its unmistakable 1950s style. A full towing setup was added to the rear, making it the perfect partner for his vintage trailer.
That partner, a 1951 Nashua, completes the picture. With its classic lines and period-correct charm, the trailer pairs naturally with the Ford, creating a cohesive look that feels like it rolled straight out of a bygone era. Together, they represent the golden age of American road travel- simple, stylish, and built for the open road.
Clayton has shared this unique setup at regional events, including a well-attended downtown cruise in nearby Medford, Oregon. Surrounded by hundreds of classic cars, his Ford-and-Nashua combination stood apart. Towing a vintage trailer through the cruise was something many attendees had never seen before, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.
Other Toys and Projects…
A lifelong collector and restorer, Clayton has spent years preserving pieces of the past-from classic cars to his fully restored 1909 home. Even now, he keeps an eye out for forgotten trailers waiting for a second chance, though he admits they’re getting harder to find.
At 87, Clayton Brown continues to celebrate the craftsmanship and character of vintage design every time he hits the road. And with his ’49 Ford leading the way and his ’51 Nashua close behind, he’s not just preserving history- he’s bringing it to life.
Want to see more vintage trailers and classic cars? Attend a Trailerfest Rally or visit an Open House on Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm. www.trailerfestrally.com.
