The original Tin Can Van was my older brother's. On a snowy December evening, garland and ornaments hanging from all windows, I was first to see it. My mother grinning ear to ear in the drivers seat. Some how, she knew what none of us did. The legend began, and the adventure, began that night.
A 1986 Toyota Van. The Van, as it was affectionately known by all, was once used to deliver Chinese food. There were no seats in the back or any semblance of an interior. There was a huge nicotine stain on the metal roof from the previous owner, though. The Van lacked any kind of interior lest for the driver and passenger seats. The only comfort you could find were two bean bags in back, if you were lucky to get one of them. It was a different time. There was no heat or air conditioning. It never got washed because it would leak from a new place every time. Still, it was The Van, and it was loved by all.
In April of 2019, suddenly and unexpectedly, I lost my brother. We lost my brother. To this day, whenever he is remembered, The Van is always a part of the story. The pictures here are from the best road trip I was able to take with him. This was before Van culture. Before modified interiors and comfortable living. No, this was Chicago to Key West with 2 bean bags and a few airline blankets. Laughing, singing, and trying to stay warm while simply going on whatever path The Van took us on. Camping in the Florida Keys and watching the sun rise over low tide to finally breaking down in Ohio on the way home. Just laughing that someone was lucky enough to have AAA.
When trying to decide on the name for my design company, I hit a wall. Nothing was hitting home until a college friend sent me a late Christmas gift. A matchbox car: 1986 Toyota Van. Immediately, this found its way onto my desk, and memories started rolling in. Without hesitation, Tin Can Van Designs had its name.
Brother, I miss you. I wish you could see this. I wish I could see your reaction. Tin Can Van Designs is for you. It's for all of us. We're pointed in a direction. Let's see where this hunk of metal takes us.
- Much Love
