Denis and Lily Tetreault of Mesa, Arizona, were looking for a trailer to place on their vacation property when they stumbled upon a hidden gem. Like many enthusiasts in the vintage trailer world, their journey began with a love for classic cars. While showing their 1967 Camaro at a car show in Arizona, they decided to take a little cruise around town. That’s when Lily spotted something intriguing behind a barn—a silver trailer, partially hidden but impossible to ignore.
Curious and determined, they tracked down the property owners and asked if the trailer was for sale. As it happened, the family was eager to let it go. They were cleaning up the estate after the passing of the family patriarch, and the trailer—a 1953 Spartanette—had been sitting untouched for decades.
Originally used as a temporary home while the family built their permanent residence, the Spartanette had been sealed up and left as-is. When Denis and Lily opened the door, they were greeted with a snapshot of midcentury life: food still in the fridge, clothes in the closet, even old garbage. The deal? They had to take everything inside as well.
Once cleared out, the trailer became a full-scale restoration project that spanned two years. At the same time the Tetreaults were rebuilding their home, they were breathing new life into the Spartanette. To aid the process, they purchased a second Spartan trailer to use for parts. Lily took on the monumental task of redoing all of the woodwork inside, while Denis managed repairs to the aluminum skin, including sections that needed replacement.
The result is a beautifully restored 31-foot Spartanette that showcases not only craftsmanship but also dedication to preserving a piece of American travel history.
A Look at Spartan History
Spartan trailers have an impressive origin story. The Spartan Aircraft Company, backed by oil tycoon J.P. Getty, transitioned from aircraft production to luxury trailer manufacturing in the post-World War II era. Getty recognized the need for affordable yet durable housing and insisted on using aircraft-grade aluminum in the trailers’ construction.
Spartan trailers quickly became known for their sleek design, high-quality materials, and superior craftsmanship. The Spartanette was among their early models, offering both recreational and residential use for those seeking comfort and mobility. The 1953 model owned by the Tetreaults represents the final year the Spartanette was offered, making it a rare and valuable piece of Spartan legacy.
Today, restored Spartans are celebrated not only for their beauty but for the stories they carry and the lives they’ve touched along the way.
