On a warm July morning, the dew sparkled like diamonds on the prairie grass as we crested a hill near the University of Wyoming. Spread out before us were hundreds of gleaming Airstreams, perfectly aligned in rows. The Wally Byam Caravan Club Rally was in full swing, and I was captivated. At that moment, I fell in love—with the trailers and the community.
My father’s involvement in the JayCees gave me a front-row seat to this event, as our group provided concessions and restrooms. Handing out fresh glazed donuts, I marveled at the kindness of the people. It wasn’t just about the shiny trailers—it was the welcoming spirit of the community. I knew my journey with vintage trailers had just begun.
From Dream to Reality
Years later, I shared my childhood memories with my wife, Melanie, promising to build her a trailer like those I had admired. While her initial reaction was hesitant (she wasn’t a camping enthusiast), our first project—a 1968 Airstream Overlander—won her over. A frame-off, modern custom build tailored to her preferences transformed her view of camping forever.
Over the years, restoring vintage trailers has become a cherished hobby for our family. My wife, Melanie, and our nine-year-old daughter, Grace, have joined me in this passion. Together, we’ve worked on several projects, including a meticulous restoration of a 1966 Streamline Empress. Grace, inspired by mid-century style, even set up a lemonade stand at rallies in her vintage Girl Scout uniform. One day, she asked, “Why don’t we build a pink trailer for me?” How could I say no?
Enter Cotton Candy
For years, I’d passed a neglected 1965 Serro-Scotty Hilander in a field, knowing it would someday be mine. Grace’s request gave me the perfect excuse. After tracking down the owner, I brought the trailer home, and Grace named her Cotton Candy.
The trailer was far from perfect—her mint-green interior was outdated, and the plywood walls were deteriorating. Determined to create something that would last for generations, I replaced the plywood shell with a ¾” steel skeleton frame. I made modifications like raising the ceiling by three inches and softening the trailer’s curves for a sleeker look.
For the interior, I opted for white aluminum walls, creating a bright and airy feel. Insulating the trailer thoroughly, I ensured she was watertight before adding the new polished aluminum siding, accented with a soft pink paint on the lower panels.
A Family Effort
While I handled structural and design elements, Melanie and Grace selected fabrics, tiles, and accessories. Grace’s mid-century influences shone through as we incorporated jalousie windows and a Sputnik chandelier. The cabinetry, built from solid wood with an amber shellac finish, stayed true to the trailer’s original layout while adding durability.
We updated the appliances, refinishing the stove and sink in soft pink and finding a vintage 1950s fridge to match. For a touch of elegance, we added tulip glass panels to the bathroom door and kitchen cabinets—hidden treasures uncovered in a local antique shop.
A Star Is Born
After 10 months of work, Cotton Candy made her debut at the Hot August Nights Vintage Trailer Revival in Reno, Nevada. Paired with our 1959 Rambler Cross Country Wagon, she won Best Combo—a proud moment for our family. The trailer was also featured in the Vintage Camper Trailers magazine in 2019.
Today, Cotton Candy is more than a restored trailer; she’s a part of our family. Whether hosting backyard tea parties or embarking on camping trips, she’s helping us create memories that will last for generations.
