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The vintage Spartan Trailer is still a hot commodity, and for a good reason. There’s something special about the classic Spartan design that continues to capture our imaginations.
Its iconic shape, attractive design, and distinct features have made it a favorite for collectors and outdoor enthusiasts.
In this blog post, we’ll examine the history of the Spartan Trailer, its unique models, and why these trailers continue to be so desirable today. Let’s get started!
History of the Vintage Spartan Trailer
The iconic vintage Spartan Trailer first made an appearance in the 1940s and quickly gained popularity due to its unique design and attractive features.
The trailer’s timeless look has caught the eye of generations of outdoor enthusiasts, becoming a favorite among collectors and campers. Let’s take a closer look at the history of this beloved classic.
What Is It?
The Spartan Trailer is a travel trailer that the Spartan Aircraft Co. created following World War II. They built it with the idea that it would be a home rather than an RV.
They created it using an airplane construction technique semi-monocoque, which no one had used in travel trailers prior. Covered in shiny aluminum, the Spartan Trailers were ahead of their time with a cutting-edge look, incorporating an art deco styling.
History of the Spartan Trailer
The Spartan Trailer was J. Paul Getty’s idea. Following World War II, his Spartan Aircraft Co. was struggling with direction.
Since there was a strong demand for housing, Getty determined that the company’s next move would be into the housing market via travel trailers.
They began like many other travel trailers, ranging in length from 25 to 35 feet. The Spartan Trailers, however, were cutting-edge in build and design, costing quite a bit more than most other travel trailers.
As competition grew, Spartan began using less expensive materials and designs, making its trailers more affordable. This led to a lengthy list of models, which topped out with a 10-foot wide, 57-foot long version.
What Years Were Spartan Trailers Made?
The first Spartan Trailer prototype debuted in 1945. The company began producing shortly after designer G.R. Schutes gave them their iconic look.
Production of Spartan Trailers lasted a little less than two decades, with 1962 being their final year in the travel trailer business. The plant closed and transitioned into an insurance and finance company, Minnehoma Insurance Co.
How Many Models of Spartan Trailers Are There?
There were at least 19 models of Spartan Trailers over their 17 years in production.
There were many stunning designs, but only a handful became the ones that collectors drool over. Let’s examine the most popular Spartan Trailers.
Manor
The Manor was the first Spartan Trailer off the production line in 1946. It featured a fantastic combination of comfort and style that made it stand out from its competitors. It had a shiny, curvy aluminum exterior with a massive observation window.
This 25-foot model also included a full galley kitchen with stainless steel sink, a range, and an icebox for food storage. Plus, built-in cabinetry provides plenty of room for all your camping necessities.
They designed the Manor with luxury in mind, offering comfortable sleeping areas and many modern conveniences. The company marketed it as more of a home than a travel trailer.
Spartanette
The Spartanette appeared in 1948 and was one of the most popular vintage Spartans. Offering a combination of style and comfort, this trailer was particularly attractive to campers looking for something luxurious and practical.
It was not as luxurious as the Spartan Manor, and they marketed it as a proper travel trailer. The Spartanette featured a spacious interior with expansive windows for plenty of natural light and a kitchen and a dining area with modern appliances like an icebox, stovetop, and sink.
With an exterior including swooping curves and aerodynamic details, the Spartanette maintained the epic Spartan aesthetic that stood out from the crowd.
Mansion
The Mansion, like the Spartanette, was first released in 1948. It is one of the most coveted vintage Spartan Trailers.
While the Spartanette was more sensible, this luxurious model offered style and comfort inside and out in a 30-foot length. Implementing the idea of being a home trailer akin to the Manor, it had a modern interior with plush fabrics and cabinetry. It also had a full galley kitchen for making meals on the go.
Its aluminum exterior had sleek curves and attractive details that helped Spartan Aircraft Co. make a splash in the world of travel trailers.
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Imperial Villa
With the sleek aluminum styling that made Spartan famous, the Imperial Villa was launched in 1958. It was one of the company’s most ambitious offerings ever.
It clocked in at 10 feet wide and 46 feet long. The luxurious interior came in one-bedroom and two-bedroom versions. It included a living room, a kitchen, a dining area, and all the plush fabrics and cabinetry that made Spartan famous.
Always trying to remain at the forefront of the travel trailer segment, the Spartan Imperial Villa included the updated styling and decor of the late 1950s.
Why the Spartan Trailer Is Still a Hot Commodity
Vintage Spartan Travel Trailers remain a hot commodity for a few reasons.
First, these trailers have an iconic style that speaks to the history and nostalgia of old-school road trips. They feature unique details like aerodynamic curves and fashionable interiors that are timeless in design.
In addition, many vintage Spartan Trailer models are highly collectible because of their scarcity. They are appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
These RVs are so sought-after that vintage Spartan Trailers when fully restored, can fetch well into six figures. Even Spartan Trailers that are shabby but still have the body and structure intact can sell for thousands of dollars.
Are Spartan Trailers Still Made?
Spartan produced trailers from 1945 until 1962. They no longer manufacture the RVs.
The company that made these models is long gone, so the vintage Spartan Trailers that still exist are highly sought-after collectibles.
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Step Back in Time With a Spartan Trailer
Vintage Spartan Trailers offer a unique style and timeless design that stands out today.
Whether you’re a collector looking for a rare piece of memorabilia or the perfect vehicle to transport you back in time, there’s something special about these classic trailers.
With their iconic look and practical features, vintage Spartan Trailers are a hot commodity that will likely remain so for years to come. Step back in time with a Spartan Trailer, and experience the nostalgia of yesteryear.
Which Spartan Trailer model would you most want to own?
