Airstream Club International (ACI), the oldest single-brand RV social club in North America, will celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2025 with a year-long series of events, culminating in a grand celebration at the International Rally in York, Pennsylvania, from August 23 to August 28.
Originally founded as the Wally Byam Caravan Club in 1955, ACI unites more than 19,000 members from the United States, Canada, and Europe in their shared love of Airstream travel trailers and the spirit of adventure.
The club’s history began when inventor Wally Byam led a group of travelers on an international caravan to Nicaragua. It was during a 1955 caravan in Eastern Canada that the Wally Byam Caravan Club was formally established.
Since then, the club has played a pivotal role in fostering a community of travelers who gather for rallies, caravans, and community service projects.
To commemorate this milestone, ACI will feature a historical retrospective showcasing the evolution of Airstream travel culture, including archival photos and personal stories.
Additionally, the club will launch an oral history project to collect memories from current members, which will be donated to the soon-to-be-established Airstream Club International Historical Center.
Joe Peplinski, ACI’s Historian, emphasized the significance of the anniversary: “For seven decades, the Club has been a home on the road for travelers who share a love of adventure and connection. To be able to share this history with current and future Club members has been my passion.”
Barb Derian, international membership chair, remarked, “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.”
The anniversary events will bring together Airstream enthusiasts from around the globe to celebrate their passion for the iconic silver bullet trailers, engage in educational sessions, and enjoy a variety of entertainment.
For more information about Airstream Club International and the 70th Anniversary Celebration, visit airstreamclub.org.
