This unique, homebuilt stand-up teardrop trailer spent just a few short years on the road before disappearing from sight for nearly six decades. From 1949 to 1951, it was used for family camping adventures. But in 1951, the little trailer was carefully rolled into a garage, placed on blocks, covered, and forgotten—until it resurfaced 57 years later.
In 2008, Norman spotted an intriguing listing on Craigslist for a vintage trailer in Santa Maria, California. Curious, he set up an appointment to see it and jokingly told his wife he was off to pick up her “new” trailer. While it wasn’t new by any modern standard, it was certainly new to them—and a rare find at that.
The trailer turned out to be an original 1949 stand-up teardrop, lovingly home-built by its original owner. At 92 years old, the owner decided it was finally time to pass the little gem along to new caretakers, and Norman just happened to be first in line.
After sealing the deal, Norman ensured the trailer’s tires were aired up and the bearings greased. Then, remarkably, he towed the trailer 150 miles home to Sherman Oaks, California—on its original tires. Later research revealed those tires were made by the U.S. Rubber Tire Company in Norwalk, Connecticut—coincidentally, the same town where Norman was born. Some things are just meant to be.
Today, this stand-up teardrop remains an incredible time capsule. It still features its original curtains and canvas, and its clever clamshell design allows occupants to stand comfortably inside. When opened, the trailer stands 6’8″ tall, is 6’4″ wide, and stretches just 9’9″ long. Despite its compact footprint, it packs in everything needed for a cozy camping experience: sleeping space for two, an icebox, cabinets, a folding table for four, the original cook stove and lanterns, electric heat, and even space for a porta-potty.
After decades hidden away, this rare trailer now makes regular appearances at West Coast vintage trailer rallies, where it continues to turn heads and spark conversations about its unique history.
