When the RV/MH Hall of Fame in Elkhart, Indiana needed to find a new home for a pair of duplicate vintage trailers, it opened the door to an incredible opportunity. Among them was a rare 1934 Covered Wagon—one of the earliest examples of mass-produced travel trailers in the United States. With its tandem axle design, leatherette siding, and canvas top, this pre-war beauty was both historically significant and structurally unique.
After traveling nearly 1,800 miles from Indiana to the Pacific Northwest, the Covered Wagon arrived at its new home and was carefully unwrapped for the first time. What lay beneath the dust and grime was an unmolested survivor in need of a full restoration—an exciting and humbling project for the team tasked with preserving its legacy.
The first step was a thorough cleaning and assessment. Every inch of the trailer was inspected to determine what could be saved and what needed restoration. The team kept the restoration respectful of the trailer’s original character, preserving as many authentic elements as possible while upgrading hidden systems to meet modern-day standards.
The original 110v wiring was replaced, and new plumbing was installed to make the trailer more functional for contemporary use. The hand pumps in the kitchen and bathroom sinks were restored to working order, and modern faucets were discreetly added. The original floor, hot plate, and leaded glass in the galley cabinets were preserved, along with the intricate 1930s hardware found throughout the interior.
One standout feature is the restored wood-burning stove. Safety enhancements and decorative additions were made, including a custom brass heat shield that reflects both function and artistry. Period-appropriate fabric was sourced for the couch and curtains, adding vintage charm and elegance to the interior.
On the outside, the Covered Wagon retains its distinctive leatherette siding—a marine-grade imitation leather—and canvas roof, both accurate to the trailer’s original construction. It was the restoration team’s first experience working with leatherette, and the results exceeded expectations. The material proved to be one of the most rewarding aspects of the project, adding a unique layer of authenticity to the finished trailer.
The completed restoration was unveiled at the Sweet Home, Oregon Rolling Oldies Vintage Camper Trailer Rally, where it captured the attention and admiration of fellow vintage trailer enthusiasts. The Covered Wagon stood as a beautifully restored example of American ingenuity during a time of great innovation. From the built-in jack with a detachable hand crank to the lightweight spring-steel tongue, every detail tells a story of craftsmanship and forward-thinking design from nearly a century ago.
Thanks to a thoughtful and respectful restoration, this 1934 Covered Wagon trailer will continue to inspire awe and appreciation for generations to come. It’s more than a camper—it’s a rolling tribute to America’s pioneering spirit in the golden age of trailer travel.
