Tin Can Tourists (Images of America: Florida) - Softcover

Wynne, Nick

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0738502162 ISBN 13: 9780738502168

Publisher: Arcadia Publishing, 1999

Synopsis

With the arrival of the twentieth century, Americans continued in the pioneering spirit of their forebears and looked upon the automobile as a new way to explore the unknown. Thousands of Americans packed their tents in the backs of their cars and set out to enjoy the back roads of the United States. Carrying extra gasoline in five-gallon cans, plenty of canned food, and extra tires strapped to the fenders, these intrepid souls began an exploration of the North American continent with a thoroughness that put Lewis and Clark to shame. These tourists became the symbol of another “New Generation” of Americans, restless, adventuresome, and filled with boundless curiosity. These were the “Tin Can” tourists.
In 1919, the official organization of Tin Can Tourists of the World was formed in Tampa, and the group held two meetings annually until disbanding in 1977. Early on, residents of Florida recognized the potential economic impact of the Tin Canners on the state, and the movement to improve roads and provide accommodations and amusements to these seasonal travelers flourished. By 1930, Florida had built more than 3,000 miles of paved roads, and campsites, roadside motels, and exotic animal parks could be found along most major thoroughfares.

About this title

About the Author:

Tin Can Tourists in Florida, 1900–1970 is a colorful look at the members of this unique American subculture, the roads they traveled, and the Florida they saw. Author Nick Wynne, executive director of the Florida Historical Society, has expertly combined rare images of these pioneering motor tourists with detailed historical captions, giving readers the opportunity to join in the caravan and explore the treasures of Florida that were once found only off the beaten track.

About this edition

• Publisher: Arcadia Publishing
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 0738502162
• ISBN 13: 9780738502168
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 128