Part 3~Tennessee Aviation Museum & Geo's Family Tie

While in Pigeon Forge, we visited the Tennessee Aviation Museum in Sevierville.  Geo loves anything aviation or space related, and this museum has been on his radar since we first discovered it a few years back. This trip, we finally stopped in for a visit.  

As you'd expect, we found a variety of vintage warbirds and other types of aircraft, interesting memorabilia and exhibits, a few classic cars, military vehicles and more.  We didn't expect to discover a family tie though!  What a delight! 

A pretty straightforward declaration!

A colorful military clock.

Does it tell more than time? 

There were several displays like this one 

(without Geo in front of course). 😁

Hah!  
Geo appears to be a bit blurry!
How does  he do that?

One of us (not saying who),

initially wondered, 

"Is this a charging station for an electric octopus?"

Thankfully, the sign was right in front. 

It's a Gnome Rotary Model B Engine.

We get the "engine" part.  

Checking out the cockpit.

This Twin Beech Mock Up has spent time in the entertainment industry, mostly appearing in TV shows like Cheers, Coach, General Hospital, Days of Our Lives, Fantasy Island, Baywatch and Lassie to name a few.  It's also appeared in movies and commercials.

Below is the full list including producer and year.

Click to enlarge it.

This plane was the best part of the museum for us! 

It's a P-47D-40RA Hun Hunter XVI

made in Evansville, Indiana in early 1945.

George grew up in Evansville.

His Mom was a Rosie the Riveter 

at Republic Aviation in Evansville 

where the plane was built. 

We think it's very possible that 

she may have riveted on it!

A bit of the Hun Hunter's history.

A pretty cool array of old Jeeps outside the museum!

We chatted with the friendly gal at the front desk when we were leaving and told her about the family connection. She asked if we had any pics of Geo's Mom in her uniform, but as far as we know, there aren't any. If we should come across one though, this museum would be a mighty fine place for it to be shared!

See you soon with the latest on the build.

Smiles,

D~~~~