DaGirls Rv Travels: On DaRoad to AIBF

Thursday, September 7, 2017

On DaRoad to AIBF–Day 29 and Counting

We left Liberal Kansas around 7:50, this morning. Susan has the first shift and I’ll have the second. For those of you, who may ask, what is there to do in Liberal? Well, Liberal is the State’s Home of Dorothy’s House. Along with a historical society house and museum. Both of which are a must see. Along with the Mid America Air Museum.

The museum is based at the original B-24 Liberator WW II air base. This based operated from 1942 to 1945 ish. The museum has bragging rights as the largest General Aviation Museum in Kansas.

Now, for those of you who read trip reviews, you will notice some people (guys) complaining about not going out on the tarmac. Well, this is all I have to say about that:

“To those that wait come good things.”

We stop in and were amazed at the general aviation airplanes and fixed-wings. Being retired from the Aerospace field, I was surprised at the quality of them. Walking around the history that is stored here. Truly amazing. We saw a 3 time world record holder, Fastest time in a straight line, covering over 5,000 miles. Planes that were ahead of there time, when produced. Small scaled planes used by the military, 2 of the smaller instrument flight simulators.

As we were getting ready to leave, we asked if a volunteer was available, as we did want to walk on the Tarmac and look at the 5 planes outside. Boy where we surprised, when the new museum general manager introduced himself and said he would escort us.

After introductions, Scott gave us a personal tour. As we walked around, he explained the many changes taking place and what they were expecting in the future.

One of the special planes on hand was Burt Rutan Starship Enterprise. Which you can read all about it:

HERE

This was the first Composite construction and an all glass cockpit display. I marveled at this, when the plane was introduced.

Now look how many commercial airplanes have the same things.

Another plane I marveled at was a Beechcraft Model 17 Staggerwing. You can read all about it:

HERE

This plane had been owned by a ranching couple (JR Ranch). After the couple passed away, the family decided to donate it to the museum.

Now, you are wondering why, I stated the quote? As we continued to walk and talk about the many aircrafts, Scott, asked, which airplane would you like to peak inside and even sit in. WOW, a big WOW.

Highlight? Burt Rutan’s and the Staggerwing of course. To sit in a plane with such advancement at the time and a luxury plane of the time.

I do have to say, if any of you come this way and have a week or 2 to spend, I would think about doing the time volunteering at the Mid-American Air Museum. As a volunteer, think about the many planes you could touch, look inside, feel with your hands and marvel at the many miles they traveled. Even just picking up a broom and sweeping the floor, you could gaze at the many planes.

My hat goes off to Scott and his wonderful knowledge of the many planes on site. A person that moved from Orlando, Florida to become the general manager? Museum Curator?

Mid-America Air Museum
Website
Directions
4.213 Google reviews
Museum in Liberal, Kansas
Address: 2000 2nd St, Liberal, KS 67901
Hours:
Open today · 8AM–5PM
Phone: (620) 624-5263

So, as we leave Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas we bid a fond farewell and refuel for $2.39/gallon.