Airstream is the oldest American RV manufacturer and may be the most well-known RV brand, with its line of iconic aluminum-skinned, gleaming silver homes on wheels. Wallace Byam, Airstream’s founder, was practically born a traveler. As a child he traveled extensively with his grandfather, who led a mule train in Oregon. Later, his grandfather acquired a herd of sheep and teenage Wally became the shepherd, living in a two-wheeled donkey cart outfitted with a kerosene cookstove, a sleeping bag, and wash pail. These early experiences undoubtedly contributed to the direction his life would eventually take.

He first built a travel trailer in 1923 in response to poorly-designed trailer plans he found in a magazine. He improved on the flawed design by dropping the floor down between the wheels and raising the ceiling height so that it was possible to stand upright inside the trailer. He wrote a magazine article for “Popular Mechanics” on how to build the roomy trailer for under $100, and the response was so enthusiastic that Wally began selling plans, complete trailer kits and even finished trailers from his California home. By 1930, he was a full-time builder of travel trailers and soon trademarked the Airstream name. The first production model, the Clipper, was introduced on January 17, 1936.

The Clipper and subsequent models were truly revolutionary, with a monocoque frame and riveted aluminum body that incorporated aircraft construction methods. They were aerodynamic with a stylish, contemporary look, and were extremely popular. Airstream was the only trailer maker (of more than 300) to survive the depression, but was forced to halt production during WWII. Wally used his experience with aluminum fabricating during the war years to work for Lockheed and Curtis Wright.

After the war, the economy boomed, and so did demand for Airstream trailers. Wally introduced new models and even led some caravans on adventures all over the world. In 1952, Airstream opened a new production facility in Jackson Center, Ohio, the company’s current headquarters. Wally Byam passed away in 1962, but his company lives on. Purchased by Beatrice Foods in 1967, the company continued to expand. Airstream introduced its first motorhome under the Argosy brand name in 1973, and under its own name in 1979. In 1980, Airstream was purchased by Thor Industries, a corporate holder of several RV brands including Damon, Dutchmen, Four Winds and others.

Airstream celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2006, and is currently developing more new products than at any other time in the company’s history. With a variety of travel trailers and motorhomes, featuring such innovations as the SkyDeck rooftop patio and the radical, diminutive BaseCamp trailer, Airstream continues to be an American legend.

Owners Club: Wally Byam Caravan Club International (founded in 1955)

Owners Club Benefits:

• Blue Beret official magazine (10x/year)
• Discount rates for camping, insurance
• Local chapters and events
• Regional and national caravans and rallies
• Overseas caravans
• Quarterly Airstream Life magazine (from Airstream; separate subscription)
• More

Visit the Airstream website