Alternative housing is not a new concept; vacations often included sleeping in a camper...and it was considered to be "fun."  However, in the last 30 years, alternative housing has taken on a new and serious meaning: a necessary dwellingplace when traditional housing became impossible to maintain.  In the 1970s, cars and van conversions were the primary sources for sleep, storage, makeshift toilet facility, and a private indoor place for eating (with the frequent usage of a sterno stove for heating food).  By 2000, minivans, SUVs, RVs, MHs, trailers, and trucks grew in popularity due to the increased space and amenities.  People began to prepare for the foreshadowed home foreclosure or job loss and used any saved money to purchase a (usually used) new "nest." No longer were the rich-retired the only people "full-timing it" in an RV/MH.

Until the 2000 decade, women comprised the undetectable vehicularly-housed subculture of the homeless population in America.  They created self-employment to supplement any Social Security or disability checks that paid for gas and other necessities.  Housing on wheels is commonplace, especially visible at the "fancy" Highway Rest Areas. 

However, it certainly is not the only method of an alternative dwelling place.  Houseboats, barges, and tugboats are being restored and used where there is no expensive marina.  There are creeks, rivers, and lakes where these waterbound vehicles can bob without much movement.  Some people have made improvements for travel ability.  It is not unusual now to see men -- or women -- renovating sailboats, fishing, and lobstering workboats in backyards in rural areas.

  TO BE CONTINUED WITH MANY MORE PHOTOS AND PERSONAL STORIES!