I had some more time to think about your question today. I did another road trip, leaving the house at 6:30 AM. I just got back (9:30 PM). I will have some interesting pictures to share, but that is for another post.

As I indicated, I had some time to think about it. A good museum must have well laid out displays with support text on panels, etc. The placed doesn’t have to be fancy. However… the difference between a good museum and a great museum are the docents. Outgoing, friendly, informative, enthusiasm are all qualities that a docent should posess. I once visited the Museum of Flying in Santa Monica, CA, before it closed. A docent there made my day. He saw my interest as I was photographing everything with wings. He took me on a brief guided tour to tell me about the specific airframes, and when we were don’t he said… “Do you want to see P-47? We have one in the hanger over there…” Do you think I said yes? 😉 After taking me across the tarmac to another hangar which he opened up, he gave me a walk around tour of the P-47. He then said… “We have a P-38 in the next hangar.” He didn’t need to ask if I wanted to see it. Another walk around tour including allowing me to climb the ladder at the back and get a good look in the cockpit. That was one memorable day, and it was the docent that made the difference. I had a similar experience at the Palm Springs Air Museum, and heard many stories from WWII pilots that were docents. Another memorable day. I don’t know if it a California influence or what, but when ever I give a tour at Vintage Wings I try to match their high standards.

Mike

Your story reminds me of a Museum called “Fantasy of Flight” not far from were I live. The owners name is Kermit Weeks and he has a great collection including the sweetest P-51C Mustang on the planet. Which, he fly’s all over the county by the way. As a matter of fact I met Mr. Weeks for the first time at the Dayton International Air Show some years back. Regardless, if you love WWII aircraft and want to get up close an personal with the restortion process. His Musuem is Highly Recommend! It also has Corsair Flight Simulators (which you climb in like the real thing and you can fly against several other people) and even a B-17 that you can walk throught with the sights and sounds of a Bomber Mission during WWII. Its hard to explain but a experience you wouldn’t want to miss!:D

http://www.fantasyofflight.com