Earl: A Rare Hercules Trailer Reborn

Every vintage trailer has a story, but few are as rare—or as heartfelt—as “Earl,” a Hercules travel trailer brought back to life by Steve Folsom of Henderson, Kentucky.

Earl’s journey began decades ago when Diane Coomes’ father, the trailer’s second owner, lost interest and parked it in the family’s backyard. There, it became a hangout spot for Diane’s son, Eric, who used it as a place to spin records. Years later, Steve first heard about the forgotten trailer through his friend Eric, and the wheels of restoration began to turn.

As a union carpenter and antique furniture restorer, Steve had the perfect skill set for the job. He purchased Earl for just $300—a deal that would eventually lead to more than $11,000 invested and countless hours of hands-on work. During the restoration process, Steve became medically disabled, and he says the project became a blessing. “It gave me purpose to get up and going each morning,” he shared. Friends often stopped by to lend a hand, turning the restoration into a community effort filled with camaraderie and craftsmanship.

Fittingly, Earl was found in the same city where he was originally built. Hercules Manufacturing of Henderson, Kentucky, produced travel trailers from 1969 to 1971. According to the company’s website, herculesvanbodies.com, Hercules began in 1902 as a buggy manufacturer in Evansville, Indiana, before relocating to Henderson. Over its long history, the company adapted to changing times and now focuses on building truck and van bodies.

In an article by Douglas White for The Gleaner, retired Hercules Manufacturing president Joseph Banna confirmed that only a few dozen Hercules trailers were ever made—likely just two or three production models. Unfortunately, the original production records were destroyed, making it difficult to confirm exact numbers. The trailers were first built under the “Henderson Trailer Company” name before adopting the Hercules brand.

Although Hercules trailers were only produced for a brief period, they remain a fascinating chapter in the company’s long history. With fewer than 50 ever made, Steve’s fully restored Hercules may be one of the last surviving examples.

Steve carefully preserved Earl’s exterior while updating the interior for modern comfort, all while maintaining a period-correct style. The icebox was replaced with a 1969 Swedish electric refrigerator, new electrical outlets were added, and a hidden stereo system brings music back to the space that once echoed with vinyl records.

Adding a touch of classic glamour to Earl’s story, model Lora Stuck of Olney, Illinois—who has a passion for vintage-inspired photography—discovered the trailer at the Southeastern Illinois Vintage Trailer Rally in Sumner. “Steven’s camper really stood out to me,” Lora shared. “It had a particularly interesting back story.” Inspired, she arranged a photo shoot with Earl at Taylor Lake Campground in Olney. “I feel truly honored to have had the opportunity to take pictures with this rare vintage gem,” she said.

From forgotten backyard relic to shining showpiece, Earl represents more than just a rare trailer—it’s a testament to passion, craftsmanship, and community.