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Time Traveller: Camping in a 'Teardrop' trailer in 1946

Camping exploded in popularity following the Second World War, in part because military supplies were repurposed to make gear such as these unique trailers
camping-with-the-cash-family

Camping trips are a steadfast part of the summer plans for many families, including the Cash family, shown here on an excursion, ca. 1946.

The popularity of leisure camping rose dramatically in the late 1940s, spurred on by a post-war economic boom, an increased use of cars, and a surplus of war materials repurposed as camping gear. For example, many Teardrop camping trailers, perhaps even the one pictured, were manufactured from materials used for bomber planes.

The lightweight trailers were easily towed behind family cars and remained popular until the 1960s when they started being replaced by larger RVs.

Visit the MONOVA website for more information about the history of the North Shore and to plan your visit to MONOVA: Museum of North Vancouver, now open at 115 West Esplanade in The Shipyards.

Currently, MONOVA: Archives of North Vancouver, at 3203 Institute Road in Lynn Valley, is open by appointment only. Contact: [email protected]

Navigate culture on the North Shore by using the North Shore Culture Compass.