Fidelis „Dale“ Wasinger’s story of creating the Great Dale House Cars is a fascinating tale of ingenuity and passion. In the 1960s, when traditional campers were built on truck frames, Wasinger wanted something different – a camper that drove like a car. When he was turned down by a Denver autobody shop, he took matters into his own hands. Drawing on his experience working at local junkyards, Wasinger began transforming damaged cars into unique camper vehicles.
Wasinger’s first creation was a camper built on the chassis of a 1961 Cadillac. He cut the car in half and welded it to a camper, creating a vehicle that was both functional and eye-catching. Over the next few years, Wasinger went on to build over 50 House Cars using the chassis of Cadillacs, Pontiacs, Oldsmobiles, Buicks, and Dodges. These vehicles were driven on long trips through the Colorado mountains, to Alaska, the East Coast, and even as far as Sweden.
Despite only building the House Cars for a short period, Wasinger’s creations have left a lasting impact. His eccentricity and forward-thinking approach to camper design have garnered a dedicated following of fans from around the world. People are drawn to the unique charm and quirks of Wasinger’s fabrication, connecting over their shared love for these one-of-a-kind vehicles.
Two such fans, Chris Werstiuk and Lina Dennison, have lovingly restored a 1965 Dodge Coronet 440 House Car. They have given the car a 1950s flair, preserving the original details that Wasinger incorporated into his designs. From the sleeping quarters above the driver’s seat to the cozy breakfast nook, Werstiuk and Dennison’s House Car is a testament to Wasinger’s creativity and craftsmanship.
Another House Car, a 1966 Pontiac Catalina, now resides in a barn in Elbert, Colorado. Owned by Paul Kastner, Dennis Chamberlain Sr., and Dennis Chamberlain Jr., this car is a well-preserved example of Wasinger’s work. The Pontiac Catalina features unique details like door knobs from a house and a distinctive taillight design, showcasing Wasinger’s attention to detail and innovative approach to camper construction.
In conclusion, Fidelis „Dale“ Wasinger’s Great Dale House Cars are a testament to his vision and creativity. These unique vehicles have captured the hearts of fans worldwide, who appreciate the craftsmanship and charm of Wasinger’s designs. Through the dedication of fans like Chris Werstiuk, Lina Dennison, Paul Kastner, Dennis Chamberlain Sr., and Dennis Chamberlain Jr., Wasinger’s legacy lives on in these iconic House Cars.