Airstream Club International, one of the oldest single-brand RV social clubs in North America, is preparing to honor a milestone anniversary with a year-long celebration.
Wally Byam, inventor of the Airstream travel trailer, had been leading groups of travelers on international caravans in their Airstream trailers for four years when the idea to incorporate a caravan club was born. On Aug. 3, 1955, during the Eastern Canada Caravan led by Byam’s cousin, Helen Byam Schwamborn, travelers gathered in Kentville, Nova Scotia, for the first Wally Byam Caravan Club membership meeting. This marked the beginning of a rich tradition, uniting generations of Airstream enthusiasts in their passion for adventure, camaraderie and exploration.
The Wally Byam Caravan Club now does business as Airstream Club International (ACI) and 70 years after its birth, the club continues to evolve while staying true to its core values of friendship, travel and lifelong learning, the organization said. ACI boasts a diverse membership of more than 19,000 members from across the United States, Canada and Europe and all walks of life. Over the years, ACI has played a key role in preserving the unique culture of Airstreaming through organized rallies, caravans and community service projects.
To commemorate this milestone anniversary, ACI will host a series of special events throughout the year, with the largest being a grand celebration at the annual International Rally, set to take place in York, Pennsylvania, Aug. 23-28. The event will bring together thousands of members from across the globe to share their passion for the silver bullet travel trailers, participate in seminars, and enjoy a lineup of entertainment, educational sessions and community-building activities.
As part of the anniversary festivities, ACI will also launch a historical retrospective showcasing the evolution of Airstream travel culture, featuring archival photos, personal stories and memorabilia.
“For seven decades, the club has been a home on the road for travelers who share a love of adventure and connection,” said Joe Peplinski, Airstream Club International historian. “To be able to share this history with current and future club members has been my passion and the 70th anniversary celebration will help bring that history to life for our members.”
In addition, ACI will launch an oral history project to collect memories from current members about their experiences in the club. Materials gathered will be donated to the soon-to-be-established Airstream Club International Historical Center, ensuring the club’s legacy continues to thrive.
“This milestone is not just about looking back at our rich history but also celebrating the future of our club and the enduring legacy of Wally Byam’s vision,” said Barb Derian, International Membership Chair.
Airstream Club International said it invites all current and prospective members to join in the celebrations online and in person to experience the camaraderie that has made the club a cherished institution for seven decades.
For more information about the Airstream Club, please visit airstreamclub.org.
