Rice Vintage Folding Caravan | Brightwells | Auction Ends: Wed 16th Sept

Incredibly rare 1920's Rice vintage folding caravan in fully functioning and usable condition; fully furnished interior; remarkable condition for a near 100 year old camper; conversion plate included for standard tow bar; find another one

The Rice folding caravan was a pioneering design of the early 20th century, offering a remarkably practical solution for touring at a time when caravanning was still very much in its infancy. Built around a lightweight folding construction, these caravans could be compacted for transport and storage, while the canvas-sided accommodation provided a surprisingly versatile living space when erected.

Dating from the 1920s, this Rice folding caravan is a fascinating survivor from the formative years of recreational motoring and touring. With its distinctive period design and ingenious folding mechanism, it provides a wonderful glimpse into the early history of caravanning and is sure to appeal to collectors of unusual historic vehicles and caravans alike.

Our vendor tells us this well-loved example is believed to have been manufactured in 1928 and was previously towed to and displayed at vintage shows behind his Austin 10, with the camper still sporting the same set of wheels today. Since then, it has enjoyed a rather different life as a much-loved Wendy house for the vendor’s family, providing the setting for many a tea party and childhood adventure.

As can be seen in the accompanying photographs and walk-around video, this remarkable folding camper presents in impressive condition for its near-century of existence. There is just one small tear to the canvas, which should be straightforward to repair but, arguably, adds a little character to this wonderfully original survivor.

An incredibly rare and charming piece of early caravanning history, this Rice folding camper would make the perfect companion to a vintage car at shows or could equally be enjoyed as a garden feature or simply preserved as a fascinating museum piece. Accompanied by a conversion plate, it could even be towed using a modern tow bar.

A wonderfully evocative survivor with almost 100 years of history behind it, this could be a rare opportunity to acquire one of these ingenious early folding campers.

Contact - [email protected]