about Gulf Stream Coach

Gulf Stream Coach:

	20 Years of World Class Manufacturing
	Part 1: The beginning

The old sauerkraut factory where Gulf Stream/Fairmont sits today.

Gulf Stream’s evolution into a world-class RV manufacturer is a success story that has revolutionized the RV industry. The company’s founder, James F. Shea Sr., was the driving force behind Gulf Stream’s growth. His vision, his courage and his drive to succeed drove Gulf Stream to become one of the top five RV manufacturers. His insight and innovation made Gulf Stream a leader, and we continue to lead the RV industry in innovative products. Mr. Shea’s philosophy has always been one of working hard but giving generously. Our continued success reflects this commitment to community, to the RV industry and to the Gulf Stream family. Today, Gulf Stream is the envy of other RV manufacturers with our focus on lean manufacturing principles, innovative products and a strong commitment to becoming the best RV manufacturer in the industry. The second generation has taken the reins and continues Mr.Shea’s vision and drive. James F. Shea, Sr. began as a successful attorney in Detroit, Michigan. After a client intrigued him with the possibilities of manufactured housing, he started Fairmont Homes in 1971 in an old sauerkraut factory. Fairmont Homes fashioned a contemporary look for their homes and a successful company was launched during an era when consumers balked at “luxury” purchases.
2003 - Gulf Stream/Fairmont today
As the success of Fairmont Homes took off, Mr. Shea began thinking about entering into the RV industry. “RVs were really at their low point when we began talking about getting into the market,” says Brian Shea, now president of Gulf Stream’s motorized division. “It was suffering from high interest rates [18 to 20 percent] … so it was really a tough time. Where most people saw trouble, my dad saw opportunity. He knew how bright the industry could be,” says Brian. “He knew that the RV business is a cyclical business.” Then a funny thing happened—RVs got hot again and the success of Gulf Stream was launched. Mr. Shea first looked at acquiring existing companies, but instead chose to start from scratch by building new facilities and utilizing improved construction technology – in short, doing things his own way. After much thought and many long hours, a new RV company was launched, Gulf Stream Coach. The name was based on fishing trips taken with dealers to the Florida Keys, where they would bask in the tranquil Gulf Stream.
First towable model off the line - 1983 Foxfire (above) current towable - 2003 Prairie Schooner (lower right).
Although recreational vehicles are closely tied to manufactured housing, few manufacturers produced both, putting Fairmont Homes/Gulf Stream Coach in unfamiliar territory. Gulf Stream’s first RV, the Foxfire travel trailer, benefited from techniques that had made their housing company successful. “It allowed us to put things in the Foxfire that weren’t seen in travel trailers,” says Brian Shea. “The hardwood cabinets made for a more residential feel. We had a little bit more vibrant colors - our interiors were set to grab people. At that time, it was mostly beige and brown units.” The best way to get noticed at that time was to make a splash at the industry’s biggest coming-out party, the South Bend RV Show. And the South Bend RV Show was just a few months away. Mr. Shea wanted Gulf Stream’s debut to be a memorable one, showing up with towable and motorized units in hand. That August Gulf Stream Coach walked away from the South Bend show with several orders. They were now in the RV manufacturing business.

First Gulf Stream ever - 1983 Sun Stream	Latest motorhome introduced - the 2003 Atrium
Research on this article was made easier due to an article published in Coast to Coast “Getting to know Gulf Stream” January-February, by Brent Peterson. We would also like to thank the staff at the Nappanee Public Library for their assistance in researching the history of the company.