by daryllmilnikel@rvmhhalloffame.org | Aug 5, 2026 | Events
Welcome, history enthusiasts, design aficionados, and curious travelers! As your resident museum docent here at The RV/MH Heritage Foundation Inc., I am always delighted to welcome visitors who appreciate how American ingenuity transformed the very concept of home. If you have ever wondered how we moved from canvas tents strapped to the running boards of early automobiles to the sophisticated, high-performance architectural marvels of today, you are in for a delightful journey.
In this exploration of mobile home history, we will trace the remarkable trajectory of factory-built housing, a story defined by grit, adaptability, and brilliant engineering. Step a little closer as we turn back the clock and explore how manufactured homes became an enduring pillar of American living.
The 1920s: The Humble Birth of the “Trailer Coach”
Long before the phrase manufactured home design entered architectural lexicons, adventurous Americans were seeking new ways to experience the open road. In the early 1920s, the first mobile dwellings were little more than rudimentary wooden trailers or custom-built camping boxes towed behind modest automobiles.
These early pioneers were driven by a simple desire for freedom and mobility. As municipal parks sprouted up across the country to accommodate this growing wave of travelers, manufacturers realized that durability and comfort were paramount. To immerse yourself in these early mechanical marvels, take time to browse our curated Museum Inventory, where vintage coaches from this era are meticulously preserved.
Wartime Necessity and Post-War Ingenuity
When the Great Depression tested the nation’s resolve, trailer coaches served a practical purpose, offering affordable, flexible shelter for itinerant workers. However, the true catalyst for mass production arrived with the Second World War.
Faced with severe housing shortages near defense plants, the federal government turned to trailer manufacturers to produce portable housing units for defense workers. Manufacturers substituted heavy woods with lightweight, resilient aluminum and steel, materials pioneered by aviation leaders like Spartan Aircraft.
When the war ended in 1945, returning service members and their growing families sparked an unprecedented housing boom. Traditional stick-built construction simply could not keep pace with demand. Factory-built housing stepped into the breach, transforming trailers from temporary vacation rigs into permanent, comfortable residences. Learn more about the legendary figures who engineered this transition by exploring our RV Founders Hall.
1954: The 10-Wide Revolution
If there is a single watershed moment in mobile home history, it occurred in 1954. Prior to this milestone, trailer widths were strictly limited by highway regulations to eight feet, severely restricting interior layouts.
Then, Elmer Frey and Marshfield Homes changed the game by introducing the 10-foot-wide home. While these units required special highway permits to transport, the extra two feet of width unlocked a revolutionary domestic feature: actual hallways and dedicated, private rooms!
Families quickly discovered that these wider units offered all the comforts of conventional suburban housing at a fraction of the cost. By the early 1960s, the industry had firmly shifted from transient travel trailers to stationary, spacious homes. For a deeper dive into these transitional years, read our comprehensive overview in The Ultimate Guide to Mobile Home History.
The 1976 HUD Code: A New Era of Quality and Safety
As the 1960s and 1970s progressed, homes expanded further into 12-wides and multi-section “doublewides,” reaching lengths of 65 feet and beyond. Communities matured from transient parks into well-planned, permanent neighborhoods.
However, rapid growth brought a patchwork of local and state building regulations. To establish nationwide uniformity, safety, and durability, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) enacted the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards on June 15, 1976.
This legislation was a monumental milestone. From that day forward, federally regulated factory-built housing officially became known as manufactured homes. The HUD code enforced strict requirements for wind resistance, thermal efficiency, fire safety, and structural integrity, cementing manufactured housing as a secure, high-quality housing option equal to site-built real estate.
Modern Manufactured Home Design: Innovation Meets Elegance
Today, contemporary manufactured homes bear little resemblance to their mid-century ancestors. Modern manufactured home design embraces cutting-edge architecture, energy-efficient building practices, and luxurious interior finishes.
Step inside a modern manufactured home, and you are likely to find:
- Spacious open-concept floor plans with vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light.
- Gourmet kitchens featuring solid-surface countertops, custom cabinetry, and modern stainless-steel appliances.
- Energy-efficient systems, high-performance insulation, and smart-home technology that significantly reduce utility costs.
- Luxurious master suites complete with spa-inspired en-suite bathrooms and walk-in closets.
Factory construction techniques allow builders to eliminate weather delays, reduce material waste, and pass significant cost savings directly to homeowners. It is no wonder that forward-thinking home buyers and real estate professionals view manufactured housing as a vital solution to modern housing accessibility.
Experience the Legacy in Person: Plan Your Visit
History is best experienced when you can see, touch, and walk through it yourself. Here at The RV/MH Heritage Foundation Inc. in Elkhart, Indiana, our museum brings this incredible evolution to life.
Whether you are planning a museum visit or organizing an unforgettable gathering at the Northern Indiana Event Center, we invite you to keep a few helpful operational guidelines in mind:
- Overnight Boondocking: For our museum and event guests traveling by RV, overnight boondocking is available on-site! Please note that boondocking is limited to 2 nights unless pre-arranged with our staff.
- Check for Blackout Dates: Our expansive calendar hosts major conventions and regional gatherings throughout the year. Always check our website calendar for blackout dates before planning your trip.
- Event Rentals and AV Support: Looking for a versatile venue for your next corporate convention, wedding, or community celebration? The Northern Indiana Event Center offers expansive, flexible indoor space. Please note that in-house AV support is limited, so we gladly recommend partnering with our trusted preferred vendors: specifically EA Pro Music: to ensure your event sounds and looks exceptional. Explore our venue capabilities by visiting The Ultimate Guide to Venue Rental.
Charting the Next Chapter
The evolution of manufactured housing is an ongoing testament to human ingenuity and the universal desire for a comfortable place to call home. From the early wooden trailer coaches of the Roaring Twenties to today’s smart-enabled, energy-efficient manufactured homes, the journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
We invite you to be part of our continuing story! Plan your visit, explore our exhibits, and discover the pioneers who shaped an industry. To learn more about our ongoing initiatives and upcoming exhibits, navigate to our Home Page or get in touch via our Contact Us Page.
by daryllmilnikel@rvmhhalloffame.org | May 16, 2026 | Events
VENUE ADVISORY: BREAK FREE FROM THE “BORING BOX”
Stop looking at the same old four walls! You need a space that inspires. You need a space that moves. You need a venue that tells a story as unique as your event!
I’m Daryll Milnikel, President of The RV/MH Heritage Foundation Inc., and let me tell you: we aren’t just a museum. We are the premier destination for venue rental in Northern Indiana at 5600 Executive Parkway, Elkhart IN 46514! Whether you are planning the wedding of the century or a corporate convention that actually gets people excited, the Northern Indiana Event Center (NIEC) is your answer!
Click here to view our Museum Inventory and see the history that surrounds your event!
EVENT SPACE ANNOUNCEMENT: THE NORTHERN INDIANA EVENT CENTER REVEALED
Size matters. Flexibility matters. Impact matters!
The NIEC is built for versatility. We don’t just host events; we create environments. From the massive Peter B. Orthwein Pavilion to our Executive Board Room, we have the footprint to handle any crowd!
WHY CHOOSE THE NIEC?
- Massive Capacity! Thousands of square feet at your disposal!
- Modern Amenities! High-speed Wi-Fi and pro-grade A/V!
- Unbeatable Atmosphere! You are literally walking through history!
- Location, Location, Location! Right in the heart of the RV Capital of the World!
Navigate to our Project Page to see specific space layouts!
WEDDING UPDATE: SAY “I DO” SURROUNDED BY LEGENDS
Searching for wedding venues northern Indiana? Stop clicking! You found it!
Imagine your guests sipping cocktails among vintage 1913 travel trailers and iconic motorhomes. It’s not just a reception; it’s a conversation starter! Your wedding photos will be legendary!
THE WEDDING ADVANTAGE:
- Unique Backdrops! Forget standard floral walls; use a 1950s camper!
- Customizable Layouts! Grand ballrooms or intimate corners!
- Caterer Friendly! Large prep areas for your favorite food teams!
- Memories Guaranteed! Your guests will talk about this for decades!
Check out our Class of 2019 Photo Gallery for a taste of the prestige we offer!
CONVENTION ALERT: ELKHART INDIANA EVENTS ARE LEVELING UP
Business shouldn’t be boring! If you’re hosting Elkhart Indiana events, the NIEC is the gold standard! We host The Annual Supplier Show right here, and we know exactly what industry leaders need!
CORPORATE AMENITIES:
- The Peter B. Orthwein Pavilion! Perfect for trade shows! Explore it here.
- The Executive Board Room! Serious space for serious decisions! See the Board Room details.
- Seamless Registration! Use our Supplier Registration Form process as a template for your own logistics!
- Massive Parking! No shuttle buses needed!
Looking to register as a supplier? Use our Supplier Questionnaire Info Sheet now!
COMMUNITY BULLETIN: MORE THAN JUST INDUSTRY: WE ARE FAMILY
We believe in Elkhart! We believe in Northern Indiana!
The NIEC isn’t just for RV pros. It’s for everyone! We host youth sports, community rallies, and non-profit fundraisers. We are the heartbeat of local gatherings!
COMMUNITY USE CASES:
- Youth Basketball Tournaments! High energy in a safe environment!
- Non-Profit Galas! Drive donations in a space that feels prestigious!
- Educational Seminars! Teach the next generation in our world-class library!
Support our mission by visiting our Support Page or Donating to keep our community strong!
HERITAGE HIGHLIGHT: THE MUSEUM BACKDROP ADVANTAGE
Why settle for “four walls” when you can have a Time Machine?
When you book your venue rental here, your guests have a chance to gain access to the RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum. It is an educational journey through the American spirit of adventure!
THE “WOW” FACTOR:
- Vintage Campers! See how the pioneers of the road lived!
- Luxury Motorhomes! Experience the evolution of mobile comfort!
- Manufactured Housing! Learn how we built the American dream!
Learn more about the Class of 2019 Videos to see the legends honored in our halls!
LOGISTICS REPORT: PLANNING MADE SIMPLE
We know planning an event is stressful. We make it easy!
From the moment you contact us to the final cleanup, our team is with you. We handle the “big picture” so you can focus on your guests!
THE NIEC CHECKLIST:
- Step 1: Visit thervmhhalloffame.org to see our calendar!
- Step 2: Choose your space (Pavilion, Hall, or Board Room)!
- Step 3: Review our Privacy Policy and rental terms!
- Step 4: BOOK IT!
Ready to commit? Call Now!
FINAL CALL: BECOME PART OF THE LEGACY
Don’t host another “standard” event. Be extraordinary!
Join the ranks of our Donors and Sponsors who understand that preserving history goes hand-in-hand with creating new memories!
WHY WAIT?
- Demand is high!
- Dates are filling up!
- Your event deserves the best!
TAKE ACTION NOW!
Contact the RV/MH Heritage Foundation Inc. today and secure the Northern Indiana Event Center for your next big moment!
BOOK THE SPACE!
Ready to host your next event at the Northern Indiana Event Center? Book the Space now at www.thervmhhalloffame.org!
Then scroll down and comment: what kind of event would you love to host here?
Keep up with our latest news on the Blog or sign up for the Supplier Show today!
ELKHART IS WAITING. YOUR EVENT IS READY. LET’S MAKE HISTORY TOGETHER!
by daryllmilnikel@rvmhhalloffame.org | May 16, 2026 | Events
GET READY TO CELEBRATE! Hosting a massive gala, a high-stakes convention, or the wedding of your dreams? You need more than just a venue, you need a POWERHOUSE TEAM! At the Northern Indiana Event Center (NIEC), we don’t just give you the keys and walk away! We connect you with the absolute best in the business!
Our preferred vendors aren’t just names on a list, they are our PARTNERS! They know our 40-acre campus with 100,000+ total sq. ft. like the back of their hand! They know where the outlets are, how the acoustics flow, and exactly how to make our space SHINE! And to clarify: the 36,000 sq. ft. previously mentioned refers specifically to our east wing convention center!
Scroll down to meet the legends who make the magic happen!
CATERING CHAMPIONS: TASTE THE EXCELLENCE!
FUEL YOUR GUESTS WITH THE BEST! Whether it’s a five-course seated dinner or a casual buffet, these culinary experts deliver every single time! They utilize our top-tier commercial prep kitchen to ensure every plate is perfection!
1. NAVARRE HOSPITALITY GROUP (SOUTH BEND)
ELEGANCE PERSONIFIED! If you want world-class service and a menu that will have your guests talking for years, Navarre is the answer!
- The Vibe: High-end, sophisticated, and flawlessly executed!
- The Expertise: They handle everything from intimate VIP dinners to massive corporate summits!
- The Link: Visit Navarre Catering
2. RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE (GRANGER/MISHAWAKA)
THE GOLD STANDARD! Everyone knows the name, but wait until you see them in action at the NIEC!
- The Menu: Sizzling steaks and legendary sides!
- The Impact: Perfect for gala dinners where you want to WOW your donors!
- The Link: Explore Ruth’s Chris Granger
3. CAMILLE’S OF BRISTOL
LOCAL FLAVOR, BIG TALENT! Camille’s brings that heart-and-soul cooking that makes every guest feel like family!
- The Specialty: Home-style excellence with a professional edge!
- The Secret: Incredible attention to detail and personalized menus!
4. VILLA MACRI
ITALIAN PERFECTION! Bring a taste of Tuscany to Northern Indiana!
- The Selection: From gourmet pasta stations to exquisite wine pairings!
- The NIEC Connection: They know exactly how to set up for maximum efficiency in our hall!
- The Link: Check out Villa Macri
5. TERI’S
RELIABLE, DELICIOUS, UNBEATABLE! Teri’s is a staple for a reason!
- The Focus: Fresh ingredients and creative presentations!
- The Result: A seamless dining experience that keeps your schedule on track!
6. NELSON’S BBQ AND FUNDRAISING
BIG FLAVOR! BIG CROWD ENERGY! Nelson’s is a Northern Indiana favorite for hearty, crowd-pleasing meals that keep guests happy and lines moving!
- The Specialty: Barbecue favorites and large-scale fundraising-friendly service!
- The Advantage: A strong fit for community events, banquets, and high-attendance gatherings!
7. TOM’S TRAVELING COFFEE TRUCK
CAFFEINE THAT KEEPS THE MOMENT MOVING! Need a warm welcome, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a fun late-night touch? Tom’s brings the buzz!
- The Specialty: Fresh coffee service with mobile convenience!
- The Advantage: Perfect for conventions, vendor expos, morning events, and guest hospitality stations!
RENTAL ROCKSTARS: TRANSFORM THE SPACE!
DREAM BIG! Our venue is a blank canvas, and these pros have the brushes! From velvet linens to massive stage setups, they bring the WOW factor!
BURNS RENT-ALLS (MISHAWAKA)
EQUIPMENT FOR DAYS! If they don’t have it, you probably don’t need it!
- The Inventory: Tents, chairs, tables, and everything in between!
- The Trust: They’ve been our go-to for years! They know our loading docks and floor plans better than anyone!
- The Link: Rent with Burns
AAYS EVENT RENTALS (MISHAWAKA)
STYLE MEETS SUBSTANCE! Want a look that’s straight out of a magazine? AAYS delivers the aesthetic!
- The Edge: Trendy, modern, and always in pristine condition!
- The Service: Fast delivery and expert setup!
- The Link: Browse AAYS Inventory
TECH & TOASTS: THE EVENT BACKBONE!
CRISP AUDIO! STUNNING VISUALS! MEMORABLE MOMENTS! Don’t let a technical glitch ruin your keynote! These experts ensure your message is heard LOUD AND CLEAR!
EA PRO MUSIC (TOP AV PARTNER)
OUR GO-TO AV LEADER! When the sound has to be sharp, the visuals have to land, and the production has to run without a hitch, EA Pro Music leads the charge!
- The Specialty: Professional audio, visual, lighting, and live event production support!
- The Advantage: A trusted partner for creating polished, high-impact experiences across the NIEC campus!
- The Link: Visit EA Pro Music
TPC TECHNOLOGIES INC. (AV & TECH)
THE TECH WIZARDS! Lighting that sets the mood and sound that fills the room!
- The Gear: State-of-the-art microphones, projectors, and LED walls!
- The Peace of Mind: Professional technicians on-site to handle the heavy lifting!
- The Link: Connect with TPC
MOORE ICE SCULPTURES
CHILL OUT IN STYLE! Nothing says “luxury” like a custom ice carving!
- The Art: From corporate logos to functional ice bars!
- The Impact: A guaranteed conversation starter for your grand hallway reception!
ALPHA GRAPHICS
BRANDING THAT POPS! From directional signage to massive event banners!
- The Quality: High-resolution printing that looks sharp under our chandeliers!
- The Speed: Local, fast, and exceptionally reliable!
WHY CHOOSE OUR PREFERRED PARTNERS?
SIMPLICITY! RELIABILITY! SUCCESS!
When you work with our preferred team, you aren’t just hiring a vendor: you are hiring an integrated solution!
- They Know the Rules: No training needed! They know our safety protocols and load-in schedules!
- They Work Together: Our caterers and rental teams have a shorthand that only comes from years of collaboration!
- Stress-Free Planning: Click here to download our full vendor contact sheet! (Internal Link: Contact Us)
COMMAND ATTENTION! BOOK YOUR DATE NOW!
DON’T WAIT! Our calendar fills up fast, and so do our vendors’!
- Step 1: Secure your date at the NIEC!
- Step 2: Reach out to our “Dream Team” partners!
- Step 3: Relax and watch your vision come to life!
TAKE THE FIRST STEP TODAY!
Call our event coordinator at (574) 293-1191 or visit our Northern Indiana Event Center page to start your journey!
NAVIGATIONAL NOTE: To explore more about our venue capabilities, click “Northern Indiana Event Center” in the main menu above! Use the “Contact” tab to request a tour and meet our team in person!
THE RV/MH HERITAGE FOUNDATION INC.
Preserving history. Hosting the future.
JOIN US AT THE NIEC!
by daryllmilnikel@rvmhhalloffame.org | May 7, 2026 | Events
STOP SEARCHING AND START BUILDING!
Are you ready to turn that rusted relic into a rolling masterpiece? The history of RVs isn’t just in books: it’s alive in the craftsmanship of every antique trailer we preserve. At the RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museum, we don’t just display history; we live it! Whether you are hunting for vintage campers for sale or elbow-deep in a frame-off restoration, these 15 secrets from our vault will change your project forever!
1. ASSESS THE FOUNDATION FIRST!
Don’t touch the paint until you check the frame! Structural integrity is the heartbeat of vintage travel trailers. Corrosion hides in the corners. Use a wire brush and a flashlight to inspect the chassis.
2. THE BIRCHWOOD GLOW!
Look at our 1955 Spartan Imperial Mansion. Its secret? High-quality birchwood interiors! To replicate this at home, use amber shellac. It creates that warm, honeyed hue that defines the 1950s.
3. MASTER THE RIVET!
Don’t use standard pop rivets! Authentic restorations require buck rivets for that seamless, aerodynamic look found on the world’s most famous antique trailers. It takes two people, but the result is eternal.
4. FIND A CELEBRITY MUSE!
Need a theme? Take a cue from our 1931 Mae West Chevrolet Housecar. It wasn’t just a trailer; it was a dressing room with velvet seats and Hollywood flair. Define your style before you buy your first gallon of paint!
5. POLISH TO A MIRROR FINISH!
Aluminum trailers like the iconic Airstreams in our collection require a multi-step polishing process. Start with a heavy-cutting compound and finish with a cyclo-polisher for that legendary “silver bullet” shine!
6. HIDE YOUR TECH!
The 1937 Hunt House Car was a pioneer of hidden features! It featured the first fold-away toilet. Keep your restoration looking period-correct by hiding modern USB ports and LED controllers inside vintage-style breadboxes or cabinets.
7. WEIGHT IS EVERYTHING!
Old-school trailers were heavy. When restoring, consider modern, lightweight materials for subfloors. Balance the weight over the axle to prevent dangerous swaying on the highway!
8. SEAL THE ENVELOPE!
Water is the enemy! Never use silicone on vintage travel trailers. Use Butyl tape or specialized RV sealants like Lexel to ensure your restoration survives the next 50 years.
9. EMBRACE MUTED EARTH TONES!
Don’t over-saturate! The most stunning restorations utilize a balanced palette. Think sage greens, neutral greys, and warm golds. Reference our “Founders Hall” for color inspiration that honors the heritage of mobile living.
10. SOURCE ORIGINAL HARDWARE!
Don’t settle for plastic replacements. Scour salvage yards or 3D print metal replicas of original handles and latches. Small details create the big impact!
11. REIMAGINE THE LAYOUT!
The history of RVs is a history of efficiency. Study the 1913 Earl Travel Trailer. It maximized every inch of space without a single slide-out. Use multi-purpose furniture to keep your floor plan open and airy.
12. INSULATE FOR ALL SEASONS!
Original “pink” insulation holds moisture and causes rot. Use modern spray foam or Roxul wool during your restoration. Stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter without losing the vintage look!
13. RESTORE THE BADGE!
Your trailer’s emblem is its signature. Clean, repaint, and clear-coat your original manufacturer badges. It is the ultimate mark of a professional restoration!
14. UPGRADE YOUR SUSPENSION!
Don’t trust 60-year-old leaf springs. Swap them for a modern Torsion axle to give your vintage camper a smooth ride. Protect your hard work from the bumps of the open road!
15. VISIT THE SOURCE!
DO NOT START WITHOUT A PLAN! The best way to learn is to see the masters at work. Visit the RV/MH Heritage Foundation in Elkhart, Indiana. See the 1913 Earl, the Mae West car, and dozens more in person.
ACT NOW!
Plan your trip to the Northern Indiana Event Center and walk through the timeline of the industry.
WANT TO SEE MORE?
Click HERE to read more about industry pioneers and the future of manufactured housing!
READY TO CELEBRATE?
Book your next event at our world-class venue and surround your guests with the spirit of adventure!
RESTORE THE PAST. BUILD THE FUTURE!
by daryllmilnikel@rvmhhalloffame.org | May 7, 2026 | Events
THE LEGENDS ARE HERE!
History is in the making! The RV/MH Heritage Foundation is absolutely thrilled to unveil the Class of 2026! Ten titans. Ten trailblazers. Ten industry giants who have moved mountains for the RV and manufactured housing worlds!
Read on to meet your newest Hall of Famers!
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
The 54th Annual Induction Ceremony! This isn’t just an event; it’s a milestone! We are descending upon Elkhart, Indiana, to celebrate the visionaries who built the industries we love!
WHERE: Northern Indiana Event Center
ADDRESS: 5600 Executive Parkway, Elkhart, IN 46514
WEBSITE: www.thervmhhalloffame.org
GREEN JACKET CEREMONY: August 16, 2026, at the Northern Indiana Event Center
INDUCTION DINNER: August 17, 2026, at the Northern Indiana Event Center
Do not wait! RSVP right here!
THE RV INDUSTRY ICONS!
FIVE LEADERS. UNSTOPPABLE DRIVE!
Bob Been
Affinity RV
THE DEALER! Bob Been is recognized in the RV Class of 2026 for his leadership and long-standing impact through Affinity RV!
Bryan Brady
Heartland RV
THE BUILDER! Bryan Brady joins the RV Class of 2026 for his contributions to Heartland RV and the growth of the industry!
Dr. Richard Curtain
University of Michigan
THE ANALYST! Dr. Richard Curtain is honored for the insights and research that helped industry leaders better understand the market!
Gary Enyart
Cummins
THE POWERHOUSE! Gary Enyart is recognized for his work with Cummins and his influence on RV innovation and performance!
Bill Scheffer
MMHRVCA
THE ADVOCATE! Bill Scheffer is honored for his service and leadership through MMHRVCA and his support of the RV industry!
THE MANUFACTURED HOUSING MOGULS!
FIVE VISIONARIES. REDEFINING HOME!
Evan Atkinson
Adventure Homes
THE BUILDER! Evan Atkinson is honored in the Manufactured Housing Class of 2026 for his work with Adventure Homes!
James Breen
Factory Expo Homes
THE CONNECTOR! James Breen is recognized for helping connect more families with manufactured housing through Factory Expo Homes!
Steve Case
Flying Storage Group
THE INNOVATOR! Steve Case is honored for his leadership and fresh thinking through Flying Storage Group!
James George Joffe
J&H Management
THE STEWARD! James George Joffe is recognized for his impact in management and service through J&H Management!
Robert Young
Blair Group
THE COMMUNITY LEADER! Robert Young is honored for his leadership and contributions through Blair Group!
Check out our Project Page for more museum updates!
THE PRESTIGIOUS GREEN JACKET!
A TRADITION LIKE NO OTHER!
On August 16, 2026, the night before the big show, we host the Green Jacket Ceremony at the Northern Indiana Event Center! It is the ultimate “Welcome to the Club” moment! On August 17, 2026, the celebration continues with the Induction Dinner at the same venue!
- Intimate!
- Heartfelt!
- Exclusive!
Witness the newest inductees receive their iconic Heritage Green jackets! This color represents more than just a garment: it’s a symbol of tradition, preservation, and a lifelong connection to the outdoors.
EXPERIENCE THE VENUE!
The Northern Indiana Event Center!
We aren’t just hosting a dinner; we are throwing a bash in a 100,000-square-foot masterpiece! The NIEC is the crown jewel of Elkhart!
- Spacious!
- Historic!
- Versatile!
Whether you are here for the Peter B. Orthwein Pavilion or the main hall, you are in for a world-class experience!
View the layout below to see where the magic happens!
WHY THIS MATTERS!
EDUCATION. PRESERVATION. RECOGNITION!
The RV/MH Heritage Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with one mission: Keep our history alive! Every ticket purchased and every sponsorship pledged goes directly toward:
- Maintaining our world-class museum!
- Archiving industry breakthroughs!
- Honoring the pioneers who paved the way!
Visit our Wish List to see how you can support our mission today!
DON’T MISS OUT!
BE A PART OF THE STORY!
This is the 54th time we have gathered to say “Thank You” to the best of the best! Elkhart is the RV Capital of the World, and for one weekend in August, it is the center of the universe for the Manufactured Housing industry, too!
GET INVOLVED!
- Sponsor a table! Show your company’s support!
- Attend the ceremony! Network with the legends!
- Donate! Help us keep the lights on for future generations!
ACT NOW! Click here to RSVP!
JOIN THE CELEBRATION!
See you in August!
We are ready to welcome Bill, Garry, Richard, Brian, Bob, Robert, James, Steve, James, and Evan into the Hall! Let’s make this the biggest induction in history!
Got questions? Contact us here!
PLAN YOUR VISIT NOW!
BE THERE FOR THE CEREMONY!
Visit us at 5600 Executive Parkway, Elkhart, IN 46514 and start planning your trip today!
GET YOUR TICKETS!
Secure your seats now at www.thervmhhalloffame.org/shop
JOIN THE CONVERSATION!
Tell us in the comments which 2026 inductee you are most excited to celebrate!
THE CLASS OF 2026 AWAITS!
CELEBRATE! HONOR! REMEMBER!
Instruction: To stay updated on all Hall of Fame news, visit thervmhhalloffame.org/blog.
