Buckle up! Let’s chase this 1950’s era Trailmobile trailer. I am on the hunt for something cool at the building for storage, will this suffice? Or, has the rust and rot taken it over? What do you think I should do? Comment below!
The history of Trailmobile trailers, including those from the 1950s era, is a testament to the brand’s longstanding commitment to rugged engineering and forward-looking innovation. Trailmobile’s journey began in the late 19th century and evolved significantly over the years.
Early Beginnings and Innovation: Trailmobile can trace its origins back to the time of horse-drawn carriages. Daniel M. Sechler, a carriage maker in the 1840s, established Sechler and Company, which eventually became one of the largest carriage manufacturers globally. The company’s pivot to trailers happened with the advent of motorized vehicles. In 1915, under the new name The Trailmobile Company, they introduced a trailer designed to trail behind automobiles.
Invention of the Fifth Wheel: A significant innovation by Trailmobile was the introduction of the fifth wheel in 1919. This invention, created by employee John Endebrock, revolutionized the way trailers were attached and detached from vehicles. Before this, uncoupling a trailer required three men and jacks; the fifth wheel allowed one person to do the job, significantly simplifying the process.
Post-War Growth and Changes: Trailmobile’s reputation for quality was bolstered during the World Wars, as they manufactured thousands of specialized trailers for military needs. Post-war, the company went through several mergers and ownership changes. Despite these changes, the Trailmobile name remained a respected brand in the industry. The company was later known as Trailmobile Canada Limited in the 1990s.
1950s Era Trailers: In the 1950s, Trailmobile continued its legacy of innovation. They were at the forefront of using new materials and designs in their trailers. This era saw the introduction of aluminum and steel bodies for semi-trailers and straight trucks, marking a significant advancement in trailer construction.
Economic Challenges and Rebirth: The 2007 economic recession severely impacted the trucking and shipping industries, leading to the bankruptcy of Trailmobile Canada Limited in 2009. However, the Trailmobile brand was resurrected when Manac Inc. acquired the company’s assets, reintroducing the Trailmobile UltraPlate and continuing the brand’s legacy.
Throughout its history, Trailmobile has stood for quality and innovation, from its early days as a carriage manufacturer to its modern iterations of commercial trailers and dry vans. The 1950s era Trailmobile trailers were part of this rich history, representing a period of growth and technological advancement in the industry.
