Work Resumes on Spirit of St. Louis Reproduction

Work Resumes on Spirit of St. Louis Reproduction

The Old Rhinebeck (N.Y.) Aerodrome Museum announced today it will continue work on its Ryan NYP – Spirit of St. Louis reproduction through its off-season. The plan for this winter is to finish the 46-foot-long, single-piece wing and ready the aircraft for display. Upon completion of the reproduction, the aerodrome will have built its first airworthy aircraft at Old Rhinebeck since 1993.

Ken Cassens, who is heading up the final phase of the Spirit, has been involved since the inception of the project more than a decade ago. He has spent a considerable part of his life researching the original with the intent that the aerodrome’s version will be one of the most accurate reproductions of its type ever built.

“Thanks to Ken’s ongoing commitment and generous donations of dollars from the public, and materials from other museums and small businesses, the aerodrome and its visitors will be able to see another of Cole Palen’s visions become a reality,” said Michael DiGiacomio, museum president.

On May 18, 2013, the museum will hold a public open-house to start its season and roll out the Spirit of St. Louis for display; progress made over the winter will be visible to all who visit then. The facility has four hangars exhibiting more than 60 antique airplanes plus vintage automobiles and related artifacts. Air shows featuring pioneer, barnstorming and historic airplanes from World War I take place at 2 p.m. on weekends from June 8 through October 13; biplane rides also will be available.

Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum and Air Shows are 501(c)3 non-profit organizations. To make a donation to the Spirit of St. Louis project or Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum, call 845-752-3200. To visit the museum’s website, click here.

Updated: December 4, 2012 — 11:18 AM
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