Back in 1948, street drag racing in Visalia was getting to be a problem. Fifteen high school boys, wanting to build cars and compete safely, started holding meetings in the city's recreation hall. At first a policeman, then serveral civic leaders became interested in the group.

These same young men formed the Visalia Vapor Trailers and changed the view and reputation of “Hot Rodders, Drag Racers and Car Customizers” in Visalia, Tulare County and the surrounding San Joaquin Valley drag strips.

In 1951 the club incorporated as a non profit corporation and became involved in promoting and organizing drag racing events at the Visalia local airport with the approval of the city council, Visalia police and California Highway Patrol. The event grew and continued to attract a number racing enthusiasts. Also eventually the Visalia Vapor Trailers adapted the National Hot Rod Association's rules into the club's by-laws.

Since the club's very early beginnings in drag racing the club embraced the idea of giving back to the community for their support through out the years and continue that tradition to this day.

Although the drag racing days have been gone for some time, several club members stay active in drag racing at Eagle Field and other valley events focusing on the members' love of automobiles. Also in the early years the Vapor Trailers started holding an annual Christmas Party and continue that tradition to this day. Each member brings gifts for children to the annual dinner party which in turn are donated to various unfortunate children's organizations like hospitals, CASA and others.

Currently the club stays active with members participating in local car shows, cruise nights, several community organizations and racing events. In short the Visalia Vapor Traiers have found organized hot rodding, provides a happy balance between automotive interst, legal competition and community service. The Visalia Vapor Trailers have earned the distinction of being the first original car club in the City of Visalia.