I think that alot of the smaller museums formed in the 70’s have a similar problem – they all started as a bunch of enthusiasts collecting aircraft. We for example, started with a Westland Dragonfly which was about to get the chop. The site for the embryo collection was a zoo…. Gradually the collection expanded and moved to an airfield (which ws a start!) and the hobby of a few people suddenly had to open its doors to the public to bring in funds.
How does a collection of random aircraft become a focussed visitor attraction? We are begining to organise several collections within the museum. We still have the dragonfly…..
Our problem is that out of 35 aircraft, perhaps 10 have a local connection in some way. Some are unique airframes, some have interesting histories for the true enthusiast amongst us.
I think that the key is to balance the collection – Some local history, a story or two, perhaps even a theme, and finally, a gem to keep the enthusiasts happy. I would love an original 607 Sqn Hurricane on site… but pigs will fly long before that idea gets off the ground.
In the case of specific aircraft – its all down to the history. We want to represent a Vampire FB5 of 607sqn, but the airframe we have is too significant to change. I would rather swap our significant airframe for something a little less special (perhaps a swiss Vamp) and paint that to represent a 607 FB5. Thoughts?
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