Though few people would
choose to travel in one today, you can experience a fully
functional caravan on your own property as a romantic getaway
or guest accommodations, a creative studio,
a personal meditation or healing space, or just an
exquisite conversation piece. Though they have been
around for over 100 years, English Gypsy Caravans have not
lost their ability to touch us and inspire us. They still
speak to us of romance and adventure.
On a recent trip my wife and
I ate lunch with a film producer we had just met. We told
her about the Gypsy Vans we were building, and of our plans
to have a B&B with Gypsy Vans as the accommodations. The
next day I showed her several pictures of some original Gypsy
Vans. In a voice filled with awe she whispered, "These
are 'sacred healing temples'!" Then she continued.
" Not only were these Vans built to keep their owners
safe and comfortable while traveling, but the beauty in their
carvings, guilding, and painting touched peoples' souls as
any masterpiece does. Anything that touches, uplifts or inspires
us has a healing effect on us."
The intensity of her response
surprised me, but after thinking about it I realized that
she had instantly been able to put into words what I experience
every time I see one of these wonderful rolling masterpieces.
It gave voice to my fascination with Gypsy Vans and the unspeakable
sense of "wonder" that I feel whenever I see one.
Gypsy Vans inspire me. Their beauty touches my soul.
"Whenever
I hear the word "Gypsy", I feel the wanderlust spirit
call to me. I see visions of mysterious campfires and exotic
dancing. I hear echoes of lively music and gentle laughter.
I feel the pull of more romantic and adventurous times gone
by. While these visions do not accurately describe the life
of the Gypsies, there is nothing that captures the essence
of romance and adventure as fully as a magnificently carved
and brightly painted Gypsy Wagon."
(Delvin Jasper Tetz, 1914-1975)
