Despite the name, there wasn't any actual barnstorming going on, even though we have a plethora of barns laying about the area. What there was a lot of was old planes on display:
Each plane had a plaque that listed its specifications and individual history. Most were built, initially, in the late 20's or early 30's, but had undergone extensive renovations since then. (These histories were interesting, given that I had just read Donald Pittinger's comments on plane restoration.)
This gives you a pretty good idea of the age distribution in attendance.
Also, for a mere $50 per person, they offered the tantalizing opportunity to take a ride in one of the planes. We were sorely tempted, but did not give in, because we are cheap and dull people. Here is one of the Travel Air 4000's coming in to pick up new passengers:
And here's my only image of one of the planes in the air, as it comes in for a landing. (This image strained the abilities of our little 4.0 megapixel workhorse to the limit.)
One of my co-workers rode the biplane, so to speak, and said it was a lot of fun. Maybe someday...
Posted by David Fleck at 21 June 2008 07:54 AM
Very cool, thanks. Slightly related: there was a WSJ piece a few days ago about Lufthansa's restoration of a Lockheed Constellation.
Posted by: Jonathan on June 21, 2008 11:58 AM
Many years ago I got a (free) ride in a Stearman, a plane like the red-and-silver Western Express Air you have there. I don't remember a thing about the actual flight[1] except that when it came time to land it became manifest that the pilot cannot see what the hell he's doing. The plane's nose is pitched so far into the air that the engine blocks his view of the ground. I think the wing prevents him from seeing over the side, too.
[1]What I do remember is the pre-flight advice of my ex, who took me to the flying party where I got the ride. He said, "Now, soon they're going to ask who wants to ride in the Stearman. I know you -- you'll squeak, 'Please, please, could I maybe possibly perhaps have a ride in the airplane?'" Don't do that. When he asks, jump up and wave your arms and shout, "ME! ME! ME! TAKE ME NEXT I WANNA GO!!!"
So that's what I did, although it earned me some curious stares. This advice stood me in good stead, years later, when they asked who would like to ride in the C-141 cockpit. "ME! ME! ME!"
Posted by: Angie Schultz on June 21, 2008 11:39 PM