WIX Archives

Re: Best / Worst Restoration facility? & Should they be 'Open'?

Posted by T J Johansen on Wed Dec 10, 2003 09:14:38 AM

In reply top Best / Worst Restoration facility? & Should they be 'Open'? posted by JDK on Tue Dec 09, 2003 02:07:30 PM

First of all; I must say that I haven't had any problems in getting to see any of the shops, private collections, junk heap/storage yards etc I have tried to access. In most cases it is how you're presenting yourself! Two golden rules are; I never walk into anyone's hangar without permission! I never climb on anyone's aircraft without permission! I try to be interested, but not not acting like an IRS agent, nor someone who want to steal the parts off their aircraft! Be humble, and the majority of people will let you see what they have going on! They are most likely proud of it. This attitude has given me access to many places I never thought I would get in to see, like;

Warbirds of Great Britain
World Jet
Vintage Aircraft (Darrell Skurich)
QG Aviation (Ray Middleton)
Dave Tallichet's "junk yard"
"Connie" Edwards collection
Ken Scholtz "hidden P-51"
Yanks Air Museum restoration shop
Evergreen (while at Marana)
Lee Schaller (just stored goodies)
George Perez (Sonoma Valley A/C Sales)

On the last subject. Do the restorers, owners etc. have an obligation to let us in; no, I'm afraid they don't! Whatever we may feel, the individuals who have retrieved, bought or made the parts for said aircraft have the right to say yes, or no to letting us come near. As an enthusiast I would like to be able to say; yes, you owe it to us to be able to see the planes, but they don't!!! However; If we who visit these places behave in a decent manner, and not like arrogant buttholes, they will let us come in. I'm sure we will be able to keep on going to the majority of them in the future too!
As for the best visit I've ever had, it is this;
Connie Edwards place!!! These guys picked me up at the Greyhound station, took me for the extended tour of the ranch (including the stone quarry), the ranch itself (with castle!!!), play around as much as I wanted to with the fighters, more beer than I thought Milwaukee could brew! Late dinner (With more beer and steaks the size of Texas!!!), a bed for the night, and a flight in the Albatross the next day. Followed by grilled Catfish, more beer, and escort back to the Greyhound station. Say what you want, but these Texans sure can make you feel at home!!!

T J Johansen
Oslo, NORWAY

P. S. Just got word from Todd Ward today that Sqare One has been sold. Don't know to whom, but I hope they will stay in business! Bret is keeping Pioneer Aero Service however!

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