Last Updated on February 20, 2023 by Jess
The vintage Spartan trailer is still a sought-after item, and for good reason. There is something special about the classic Spartan design that never fails to capture our imagination.
Its iconic shape, attractive design and special features have made it a favorite for collectors and outdoor enthusiasts.
In this blog post, we’ll go over the history of the Spartan Trailer, its unique models, and the reasons why these trailers are still so sought after today. Let’s get started!
The History of the Vintage Spartan Trailer
The iconic Spartan trailer first appeared in the 1940s and quickly gained popularity due to its unique design and attractive features.
The trailer’s timeless look has captivated generations of outdoor enthusiasts and has become a favorite among collectors and campers. Let’s take a closer look at the history of this popular classic.
What is it?
The Spartan Trailer is a travel trailer developed by the Spartan Aircraft Co. after World War II. They built it with the idea that it would be more of a home than a camper.
They used an airplane style half-shell construction that no one had used on camper trailers before. Clad in shiny aluminum, the Spartan trailers were ahead of their time and had an ultra-modern art deco look.
The history of the Spartan pendant
The Spartan trailer was the brainchild of J. Paul Getty. After World War II, his Spartan Aircraft Co. struggled with the alignment.
Since there was a strong demand for housing, Getty decided the company’s next step would be to enter the housing market using travel trailers.
They started out like many other travel trailers, ranging from 25 to 35 feet in length. However, the Spartan trailers were cutting edge in terms of construction and design and cost quite a bit more than most other travel trailers.
As competition grew, Spartan began using less expensive materials and construction to make its trailers more affordable. This led to a long list of models, culminating with a 10-foot wide and 57-foot long version.
What years were Spartan trailers manufactured?
The first prototype of the Spartan trailer was introduced in 1945. The company began production shortly after designer G.R. Schutes gave them their iconic look.
Spartan Trailers production lasted a little less than two decades, with 1962 being the last year in the trailer business. The plant was closed and converted into an insurance and finance company, Minnehoma Insurance Co.
How many models of Spartan Trailers are there?
In the 17 years of their production there were at least 19 models of Spartan trailers.
There were many stunning designs, but only a handful became what collectors coveted most. Let’s take a look at the most popular Spartan pendants.
Manor
The Manor was the first Spartan trailer to roll off the assembly line in 1946. It featured a fantastic combination of comfort and style that set it apart from its competitors. It had a shiny, curvaceous aluminum body with a large viewing window.
This 25-foot model also featured a fully equipped galley kitchen with a stainless steel sink, a stove, and an icebox for food storage. Plus, the built-in cabinets provide plenty of space for all your camping essentials.
The Manor was designed with luxury in mind, offering comfortable sleeping accommodations and many modern amenities. The company marketed it as a house rather than a travel trailer.
Spartanette
The Spartanette came on the market in 1948 and was one of the most popular old Spartans. With a combination of style and comfort, this caravan was particularly attractive to campers looking for something luxurious and practical.
It was not as luxurious as the Spartan Manor and was marketed as a true travel trailer. The Spartanette had a spacious interior with large windows for plenty of natural light and a kitchen and dining area with modern appliances such as an icebox, stove and sink.
The Spartanette’s exterior, with its sweeping curves and aerodynamic details, maintained the epic Spartan aesthetic that stood out from the crowd.
Manor
The Mansion, like the Spartanette, was first released in 1948. It is one of the most sought after vintage Spartan pendants.
While the Spartanette was more sensible, this luxurious 30-foot model offered style and comfort inside and out. With the idea of a living trailer that resembled the Manor, it had a modern interior with plush fabrics and cabinets. It also had a fully equipped galley kitchen for preparing meals on the go.
Its aluminum exterior, with its elegant curves and attractive details, helped Spartan Aircraft Co. make a big splash in the caravan world.
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Imperial Villa
The Imperial Villa, with the elegant aluminum design that made Spartan famous, was launched in 1958. It was one of the company’s most ambitious offerings ever.
She was 10 feet wide and 46 feet long. The luxurious interior came in one and two bedroom versions. It had a living room, kitchen, dining area, and all the plush fabrics and cabinets that made Spartan famous.
The Spartan Imperial Villa always strived to remain at the forefront of the touring car segment, incorporating the updated styling and decor of the late 1950s.
Why the Spartan camper is still a hot commodity
Old Spartan travel trailers remain a sought-after commodity for several reasons.
First, these trailers have an iconic style that evokes 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 old Spartan Trailer models are highly sought after because of their rarity. They are attractive to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
These RVs are so sought after that prices for fully restored old Spartan Trailers can be well into six figures. Even Spartan Trailers that are shabby but with the body and structure still intact can sell for thousands of dollars.
Are Spartan trailers still being manufactured?
Spartan produced caravans from 1945 to 1962. The caravans are no longer manufactured.
The company that made these models is long gone, so the old Spartan trailers that still exist are sought-after collectibles.
Please note: Go back in time with these vintage look campers!
A trip to the past with a Spartan pendant
Classic Spartan pendants offer a unique style and timeless design that still stands out today.
Whether you’re a collector looking for a rare keepsake or the perfect vehicle for a trip down memory lane, there’s something special about these classic trailers.
With their iconic looks and practical features, vintage Spartan trailers are a sought-after commodity that will likely remain so for years to come. Take yourself back in time with a Spartan trailer and experience the nostalgia of times gone by.
Which Spartan Trailer model would you most like to own?