The "Tin Can Tourists" were an early group of recreational vehicle (RV) enthusiasts who emerged in the United States in the early 20th century. Their name, quite emblematic of their resourcefulness and the era, reflects both their mode of travel and their cooking methods. Here's a closer look at their history and significance:
Origin- Establishment: The Tin Can Tourists organization was officially established in 1919 in Tampa, Florida, although the movement started a few years earlier.
- Name Origin: The name "Tin Can Tourists" came from the fact that they often relied on canned food during their travels, and their early vehicles resembled tin cans on wheels.
- Vehicles: Early Tin Can Tourists used a variety of vehicles, many of which were modified cars or small trucks equipped with homemade accommodations for sleeping and cooking. These were the precursors to modern RVs.
- Lifestyle: They were known for their nomadic lifestyle, often traveling in convoys and setting up camps in rural areas or free spaces near towns.
- Community: A strong sense of community was prevalent, with gatherings featuring communal meals, entertainment, and a shared love for adventure and travel.
- Travel and Leisure: The Tin Can Tourists played a pivotal role in popularizing automobile travel for leisure, paving the way for the modern RV culture.
- Ingenuity: Their resourcefulness in modifying vehicles and creating makeshift accommodations demonstrated early examples of DIY RVing.
- Tourism Impact: Their travels contributed to the growth of roadside tourism in the U.S., including the development of campgrounds, national parks, and roadside attractions.
- Decline: The organization's popularity waned after World War II, partly due to the development of more sophisticated and comfortable RVs and changing travel habits.
- Revival: In the late 1990s, there was a resurgence of interest in the Tin Can Tourists, leading to the revival of the group. The modern incarnation is dedicated to celebrating the history of RVing and preserving vintage travel trailers and motor coaches.
The legacy of the Tin Can Tourists is significant in the context of American road travel history. They were pioneers of overland travel for pleasure, setting the stage for the modern RV industry and the widespread popularity of road tripping as a form of vacation. Their spirit of adventure, community, and innovation continues to inspire RV enthusiasts today.