by Nick Taylor » Wed Jul 07, 2004 5:16 pm
Dee,
The Grasshopper brand trailers were a factory made unit in the early 1970s. They were made in Southern California. I don't know if they directly follow any previous design but they are definitly a decendant of the traditional teardrop trailer.
Like almost all other travel trailers, the rounded designs of the 1950s evolved through the 1960s into the squared off designs still seen today. Partially due to overall changes in styles of the time and ease of manufacture as well as providing more interior space in an overall length.
The function of the Grasshopper falls right in line with teardrops. Cozy sleeping quarters and a handy kitchen outside.
An upcoming book on teardrops promises to provide more history.
Nick.