WIX Archives
Re: Lanc, etc.
Posted by Rob Mears on Wed Feb 19, 2003 01:54:35 PM
In reply top Re: Kermits Place posted by NickB on Tue Feb 18, 2003 10:38:36 AM
I have no doubt that if Kermit had the instant means to restore and fly every aircraft in his inventory, he would. His spirit and fascination for flight preceed the fact.
As part of any financial plan though, the idea is to at least break even, and definately try not to LOOSE money in the process of seeing your dreams become a reality.
Mr. Weeks' aircraft collection is STILL recovering from Hurricane Andrew ten years after the fact, and he's still in the process of financing the next hangar (one of many). He already has his beautiful Constellation sitting outside with no where to store her. Why would he want to simply throw together the Lancaster in anti-climactic fashion only to prop her up outside in the weather? As it sits, the Lanc is well preserved in the containers where she's currently kept, and there is absolutely no more room inside the huge number of on-site storage or display hangars.
I think his logical progression is to maintain a working restoration plan (including the half dozen or more planes that are currently in full swing), while preparing shelter for these planes as they are completed. I believe Hurricane Andrew proved an intense lesson, so you won't see Mr. Weeks putting his prized collection under any more flimsy rooftops. As it should be, his hangars will equal his collection in quality and price (and beauty IMO). He has a big bank account, but his overall concept is equally as formitable, and I don't believe anyone in their right minds would want to bankrupt themselves on the eve of realizing such a grand vision.
As far as I can tell, all of Mr. Weeks collection is well preserved. Neither the B-24, or any other plane he has is "rotting away" by any means. IMO, any plane that hasn't already been restored to perfecting conditions is simply waiting in line for such treatment. Patience is as rare and precious as the TIME and MONEY it takes to return these planes to their former glory, and just as hard to come by. Mr. Weeks probably has close to 100 airframes that have yet to be restored, and I'll bet there is a related gang of enthusiasts out there for each type hoping that IT will be chosen as the subject for the next restoration.
The main hangar at the F.O.F. museum was purposely proportioned to house Mr. Weeks B-29 (including the little roll up door for the tail to clear the upper structure). This, even though his B-29's are still disassembled in desert storage. There is a plan for it all, and my bet is that the Lancaster will ultimately enjoy a prime spot as one of the centerpieves of the collection.