First Flight takes off

Students study material before class.

Eleven middle and high school students showed up for the Museum's inaugural First Flight program on Saturday. First Flight is designed to give young people an introduction to the world of aviation and give them a look at possible careers and careers paths.  The day included a flight in a Cessna, a first for all of the students.  A special thanks to the Grumman Corp., and others who made the event possible, including our dedicated volunteers.

Remembering Rosies

Rosies gathered at the museum to remember what it was like 70 years ago. 

A few Rosie the Riveters gathered at the Museum for their regular get-together. They enjoyed telling what it was like working or "surviving" during World War II.  As one Rosie put it: We didn't think we were special or would be honored 70 years later for doing what we thought was our part to help win the war. On Labor Day, Sept. 5, people across the country will ring bells far and wide at 1 PM to remember the working women of World War II. If you would like to participate, contact the museum or your local Rosie the Riveter organization.

Last Open Cockpit of season

Family gets ready to have their girls's photo taken in Museum's Huey.

Saturday, August 13, was the last Open Cockpit event this season and nearly 200 people braved the scorching heat to visit the Museum and sit in historic aircraft. A breeze helped mitigate the torrid temperatures somewhat. The State Police MedEvac team opened its hangar to allow visitors a shady respite and chance to see its latest helicopter up close.

Because of the heat, the Museum arranged for an ice cream truck to park nearby to allow visitors access to a cool treat after visiting Strawberry Point.

Thanks to all the visitors and many volunteers who braved the heat to make this another successful event!

Long-time supporter Harvey Hodgin dies

Harvey enjoyed meeting pilot Bob Coolbaugh at the 100th anniversary celebration of the Martin Company in  2012.

Harvey (Victor) Hodgin, 102, long-time Museum member and a Martineer for a number of years, has died. Harvey was a regular fixture at the Museum and enthralled volunteers and visitors with his stories about his years in aviation, beginning with his first airplane ride with his father in the 1920s, to his working association with Glenn Martin and other famous personalities. He was still consulting on aviation well into his 80s.

Harvey was very generous to the Museum with his time and knowledge and his weekly visits with an offering of cookies are missed.  For an enlightening look at Harvey's life. click HERE to read an interview that appeared in the Winter 2007/8 issue of the Museum's Newsletter.