What Were Tin Can Camps?
With World War One and the Spanish Flu over, the 1920s were a time our ancestors let loose and wanted to get out and travel across America. Many wanted to spend a couple of weeks or so in warm Florida during the winter. Of course, this was possible because the new autos were improving and affordable. The roads still needed work and there were no superhighways yet, but with a car, people could travel.
To help with the expense and not have to pay hotel prices as they traveled or where they stayed, the car proved they could haul a small trailer. Some people made their own trailer with room to sleep and carry supplies. Manufacturers also produced trailers that could be pulled by a car. Even a ‘housecar’ was developed in the late 1920s, which was like an early motorhome.
Plus an organization was founded; ‘Tin Can Tourist’ in 1919 in Tampa, FL. They helped identify where special camps ‘Tin Can Camps’ were established that welcomed people and the trailers to stay for a small fee. Camps were established in towns, outside of large cities or in open wilderness areas.
It is very possible some of your ancestors took trips to Florida or to the SW section of the country in such a trailer to escape the cold winter. Travel for vacations using the car and a trailer became increasingly popular.
Look back over family photos, see if the family was roughing it.
Photo: A family with their car and trailer in background.
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