Where to begin….Well, the other day I saw an ad on Craigslist for a 1956 canned ham but there were no photos. The ad said the camper was in good condition (you know this statement always leaves a lot open to each persons interpretation!) But I thought it wouldn’t hurt to check it out. So I contacted the seller to inquire about it. The seller sent me some photos and said they hadn’t had a chance to get them uploaded to the ad. The ad was just listed a couple hours before I inquired.
When I saw the pictures I was immediately intrigued. This old vintage camper was about as canned ham as you can get and had those charming 1950’s style windows. It is 13 feet long from tongue to rear. Probably 10-11 feet long inside. It was like a tin bubble it looked so round. So after a few back and forth emails, a phone call and more pictures, I was off to find the only bank open on a Sunday and soon we were on our way to Indiana. The seller promised me they would hold it until I could get there. The excitement was growing and I honestly could hardly contain it. I had a suspicion that the sellers didn’t really know the value of this trailer.
So after almost a 3 hour trip we arrive to check out the trailer. You know if you have been searching online ads for trailers you may have found that a lot of them look much better in photos than they do in real life and I was preparing myself for just that. However, when I arrived and saw it I was pleasantly surprised. She was undeniably ADORABLE!
Can you envision her with a really shiny polished exterior? At some point in her life she was painted all white on the bottom half and the top half was bare aluminum. The previous owner had stripped off all the paint on the bottom half. While I can’t find much information at all online about these trailers other than they were manufactured by the Mathison Aircraft & Trailer company based out of Long Beach, CA., I wouldn’t be surprised if they originally unpainted aluminum. In fact I believe these trailers are actually pretty rare. I’ve only seen 3 others from searching online. One is currently in the process of a complete rebuild, the other is a larger one owned by a famous person and the third is one owned by a Sisters on the Fly member. Another interesting fact about this trailer is the aluminum appears to be thicker than what we have on our 61 Shasta Compact. While the trailer is the same size as the Compact it’s definitely a bit heavier. Her outer skin is overall in very good shape. She has a couple dings on the front but I think I may be able to pop them out. If not, I may replace the front lower skin at some point. There is no hurry in that as I have other things to keep me busy on her.
Anyway, onward with our story….so after a thorough once over on the trailer I knew I wanted it and proceeded to ask the seller what was the least they would take for it. They said that since I contacted them they have had multiple inquiries from folks saying they would take the trailer sight unseen and said they were so surprised that it would have so much interest. (See they didn’t know what they had). They were just a couple that had used it over the years to camp in it down in Florida (thus that ugly A/C unit mounted on the tongue). So at that point I knew they had a sudden realization that their trailer was worth exactly what they were asking if not more and they were not going to take a penny less. In fact the wife told me after I got home with it that she was really struggling the night before with second thoughts on selling it at all. So I’m very thankful that I paid them full price (which was a deal in my humble opinion for this particular trailer in this condition and age), hooked her up and away we went. The trip home was uneventful and she towed beautifully. All the rear lights work (that is always a plus) and even the running lights work.
OK, on to the good stuff….the interior pictures! At 56 years old she’s in very good shape. She sports the original flooring and while some things have been modified over the years she still retains a mostly original look. You can click any of these photos to view them larger. So come on in and have a look around….
I just love that old screen door. Note a small bit of water damage on the lower lip of the exterior door.
Right as you step in you see the kitchen straight ahead. You have two overhead cupboards, a counter on the left with a sink (not hooked up) and a lower counter to the right. This trailer originally had a floor model (tall) stove/oven combination. Probably a beautiful white one. On the wall there on the upper right is the A/C remote. I’ll grumble more about the A/C later.
Sink and cover. If I don’t install a faucet in this…it would make a great cooler. Just add ice and stick soda’s in there. It does have a drain to the outside.
Excuse the wonky angle of this picture. That is a pull out spice rack the previous owner made. Not sure I’d ever have that many spices but OK. Right next to it is where a fridge could go. I’d love to find not only a fridge to fit there but on top where you see that bare counter space I’d like to put a vintage princess propane stove top. Although I’m not apposed to other options like going all electric. Above the two drawers you see there is a large pull out cutting board. It’s right next to the bed so one could actually pull it out and use it as a table. But no crumbs in the bed please! (:
Looking to the right after you step in the doorway you see the dinette (needs cushions). The table was shortened in order to make it easier to get in/out of the dinette seats. The table folds and lays down on those lips you see on the benches and that area makes into a twin size bed.
Looking at the rear you see the double bed and closet. The closet used to have a door at one time. I think what I’ll do is put up a tension rod and hang a long curtain (maybe make uses of a cute shower curtain). The porta-potty will be stored in there as well as clothing and other items. My plan is to put in a second shelf.
Under that closet shelf is the wheel well. Notice the original floor. I love this floor! It has scratches and such here and there but I’m opting to keep it…dings and all. It’s just so retro charming. Also I like those sliding storage doors under the bed.
Another view of the bed. See that metal panel across the back? The wood actually goes behind that and this is like a kick panel. Just in case you tend to kick things in your sleep LOL!
Roof vent.
So that is the “BEFORE” tour in a nutshell. I’ll post more pictures as we work on her. She’s not perfect by any means but she’s very solid and over all in very good condition considering she’s 56 years old! One thing I don’t like about this trailer (yes there is something…) is how dark the stain is on the interior. So I’m hoping I can come up with a plan to maybe sand it all down and re-stain it a lighter stain and that way it’s more even all over as well as there are some panels that are darker than others. For the exterior I am going to try and polish it. To be honest I am dreading that! While I love the look of the vintage Airstreams and other trailers that have that high polish shine, I also know just how labor intensive it is to achieve. I think painting this trailer right off the bat would do her an injustice though, so I will give polishing her a good shot with my best effort. If all else fails, then I may have to consider painting the exterior.
I know the question some of you may be asking is if she is for sale? The answer to that is not at this time. I’ve named her “Bubbles” because that’s what she looks like to me…a big tin bubble (: Plus I’m secretly a huge fan of blowing bubbles and totally a kid at heart when it comes to that! And who doesn’t love bubbles right? I think she needs one of those electric bubble making machines to sit outside at her first rally. Did you all know they now make bubble solution that comes in colors!? The next best invention since sliced bread in my book.
I hope you all enjoyed seeing her and hope you’ll follow me on the journey of her renovation.
P.S. Regarding the A/C; If I had my way I’d remove it and replace the front skin. However, after much discussion I think we’ll keep it for now and seal it in better with some metal of some sort and build a diamond plate or similar hinged box to hide it for when it’s not in use.
Share this:
I have a trailer that is 1953 and is almost the exact floor plan inside and looks to be the same on the outside. My trailer also is missing all of the paint. I have searched for years trying to find one that is as close. Funny that you arent sure as the brand either.
Hi Renate, I know the brand of this one; 1956 Southland Runabout. I just can’t find any info on them other than I know they were made by Mathison Aircraft & trailer company.
A couple things : 1. I know of another one of these trailers in Des Moines, Iowa. A friend of mine bought it. 2 the stove top was just that; a separate stove top. I may be able to secure an original one for you.
Paul, I’d love to have an original one. I’ll shoot you an email.
This trailer isn”t to far away from our 68 Playmor, same length and interior plan
Ummm, did I miss something ?, how much did you pay ?, as I said we have a 68 playmor redone and have no Idea what she”s worth now.
Kelle–She is amazing! Good job, girl! I totally love it. Wonder if you could try some sort of “whitewash”, or a white glaze over the darker stain. It is a touch dark, but it is certainly cozy and warm feeling. Can’t wait to follow the updates.
Blessings, Carolyn
so cute, I’d love to get my hands on it and pretty it all up.
I am soooo jealous! So cute! What does one like this cost?
I know you’ll make it beautiful. I love seeing your re-do’s.
betty@southern grace
OMGosh! So sweet! I LOVE LOVE LOVE the flooring and am currently looking for flooring for my soon to be 1962 Shasta Airflyte and that is what I have been searching for! Anyone know where one might find such adorable flooring? Great find Kelle!
Oh my Gosh! I am so HAPPY for you. A great find. I know you are going to have great things to share about the AFTER look. I have been looking for a vintage little trailer and my husband asks, “what will you do with it IF you do find what you are looking for?” Oh, man, we will take OFF and send post cards later. Again, thrilled for you. Jan
AWW, Very simular to my 54 Bellwood!
Oh I love the Bellwood’s. I saw one recently and got to go inside of it. Talk about uber CUTE! It was a teeny little thing and as round as it could be.
Thank you all for the nice comments. Glad you like it! We sure do too. I’ve been busy making new cushions for her today (pics coming soon). I also scrubbed the floor and made a curtain for the closet. Still a lot to do yet but I’m loving every minute of it!
Ive started gutting my 53 southland. Lots of rot.
Ed, is yours the one on the Shasta boards? Have you found any info on these trailers? I can’t seem to find anything online about them. Eventually, we’ll have the front/rear skin removed and any rot (which I’m sure we’ll find some) replaced and probably new skin put on. The restoration shop has the heavier grade aluminum which I think is what is on this one. I went to have it weighed and she’s 1620lbs. 500 lbs heavier than our Shasta Compact, although they are the same size. Must be the materials they used and the heavier aluminum I suspect. Would love to see pictures of yours when it’s all done!
Thank you for listing Bubble’s and your Shasta’s weights. I have a tiny 1960 Layton I’m restoring and am currently shopping for a new axle and wheels but I can’t find any info. 1, 000 lbs seems about right, the aluminum skin is light. Love what you’re doing, inspirational!
Yep. That’s me. I got the kichen area removed yesterday. Going to have to rebuild almost everything and use original stuff for templates.
Ed, are you planning on putting new skin on yours? If so, do you know what gauge it is? I’m thinking that the aluminum on these is thicker than what’s on our Shasta Compact, but now second guessing that assumption and maybe it’s not? I know when yours is rebuilt it will be gorgeous and likely better than new!
subscribed! I need to see how this turns out (if my wife wont let me have it…)
Yeah definitely Jim. I can’t wait to see how this trailer turns out (whether it’s done by us or someone else). I can already see her finished and with her exterior all polished. She’s going to be quite cute I’m sure.
I have exactly same tin can! It is all original birch inside and stove/sink-rounded kitchen cabinets layout is to right stove front kitchen straight ahead wooden table/leg and original vinyl seat converts to bed left of it closet back double bed -entering on left lots of cabinets and fridge area! I am smitten and only need to pull out and repair broken window/leak in back-shine it up and add back the running lights which are in a drawer -I am so happy to see one like mine!! It says Bantam but told it is a 50’s Terry or Crown-may post my progress and thanks for this site-When is any Rally? I am NJ but will travel~~~~~~~~~~~
Hi
I love this site.
Patty
KELLE,: CONGRATS, Nice site. Will have to SEARCH for a AL outer rig , now that my C.L. 1972 white Road Runner $ 1,800 is a SCAM here in Chattanooga, TN.. In Jan I scored a 54 AL , Boat from orig family , Estate item .. I have POLISHED the exterior & INTERIOR.! It is really NOT that hard.. Even some brush on Chemicals to get to a quick SATIN finish in one application..
Pic here http://inlinethumb04.webshots.com/47619/2705444870099263945S500x500Q85.jpg
Initially I like the lighter wood color, BUT one finds what was built. Use lighter color fabric’s.?
maybe a 2 inch, BILLET Polished AL strip , as foot , Kick – Plate on your Door would be a good solution. . I have many years in old Boat restorations.. Also we are prior fulll – timers & forest rangers from Penn forest… Retired here near lake, Tn river. .. Write any time.
Hi Larry,
What a nice boat! That’s neat that you used to be full-timers. I’d love to do that someday. I grew up living on a large trawler and then a sailboat up in the Pacific NW and Canada, so I could adapt and really enjoy being a full-timer. It would be a neat adventure to travel all over and home being where ever you wanted to stop (:
My wife had found 1957 field and stream. 15 ft. Tin canned ham trailer . I found California 1956 all numbers license plate an also California 1957 red vinyl year tag now all legal to use on roads. Scammed on $$ and have had to do a lot of work in/out areas! Ours has layouts as yours nice!!! We have original icebox, 3 burner stove top and oven. ( PROBLEM) gas lines were put together with (white tephlon tape) almost lost trailer! Gas Lines-Must Only Use Yellow Gas Line Flex Tape!!! Have white sink with drain at rear most area past tire, an port a potty. Marine battery under front seating area for 3 ceiling lights, on battery 12volt power ass. adapter. Front floor area I drilled 3in. hole for plug adapter usage at12volt connections to park site voltage box ,made by purchased from BassProShop# put in thru the floor-hole by battery-(not on side of trailer that may leak water). May! we see more of ur trailer photos (we need) front/rear windows that open all of ours are louvered. Thax.
i have a 1955 shasta trailer in the door i have a window the window is round like a porthole is that a stock item looks like it was orignial what do you think never saw one like it ? thanks
This looks like the exact trailer that we used to use to camp in when I was a little girl. I am 55 now. We had a family of 10 kids and would leave it at a place called Woodchuck near Temecula, CA. Such sweet memories!
Ur skin never needs paint , just great buffing job , it will look as silver steel !! Cost about 100.00 to 150.000 . Never leave in out side weather must be garaged to last for years!!
Hello I’m John from portland oergon I own a 1955 aloha she ten foot body looks like the 55 Bellawood I’ve seen on her. Looking for the correct tail lights for her dose any body know what is correct one are. Going too have her restored next sping .
I am restoring a 1956 Southland Runabout 14′ mine has a oil burning heater, wondering if you have seen one like this before.. I am a member of the ROVT (Rollin Oldies Vintage Trailers)
Don’t know if this will even be read by Kelle at this late date. I worked for Southland trailers (Mathison Aircraft) on South street in north long Beach about 1952. I was hired in to sweep the floors that summer but spent most of my time helping the workers do their job’s. Was not invited back because the owner (Matt) thought I was lazy and just goofing off instead of keeping the floors swept up.
Learned a lot about building trailers that summer. My dad worked there part time stringing 6 and 110 volt wiring in the units. These were very well built trailers for their time and they used a laminated frame or bow for the outer edge of the side walls. If my memory serves me right the skin was .032 and most of the trailers were painted on the bottom only. They had a ice box only,no holding tanks, the sink drain went out side through a hose fitting they did have a galvanized fresh water tank with a hand pump at the sink. The finish inside is much darker than when it was made. There was no stain used, just a couple coats of sanding sealer and then varnish ov
er that.
I’m looking to find what they r worth now can somebody give me and idea
I’m pretty sure I just bought one of these yesterday. I would love to see after pictures if you have any. Also, if you have any information and or suggestions to share I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks!
We purchased 1957 Field and Stream 15ft tin canned ham trailer has 1956 California plate and first year 1957 vinyl tag. Plate reregister every five years $5.00
This is the only picture I could find. It was probably taken about 1952 or 1953.
The trailer was a 15 or 16 footer with a Ice Box, Fresh water tank and propane light.
Try as I may I can’t figure out how to attach a jpg to this. Shoot me a e-mail and I’ll
send the picture with my reply.
bobritbe@gmail.com
Hi del can you send me pics of yours? I also have a runabout. maryrodzewicz@gmail.com
Just purchased one of these. Can you tell me where the vin number is located on this?