Selfridge Air Museum: Discover Michigan's Aviation Heritage

Located on the grounds of the Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Harrison Township, Michigan, the Selfridge Air Museum is a hidden gem that showcases the state’s rich aviation history. With a collection of over 50 aircraft and missiles on display, the museum offers a unique glimpse into the development of aviation technology and the significant role that Michigan has played in it.

As visitors approach the museum, they are immediately struck by the impressive array of aircraft on display, ranging from vintage biplanes to modern fighter jets. The museum’s collection includes a number of rare and historic aircraft, including a World War I SPAD XIII, a World War II P-51 Mustang, and a Cold War-era F-106 Delta Dart. Each aircraft is meticulously restored and maintained, providing a fascinating insight into the design and engineering that went into their creation.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of aircraft that were actually built in Michigan. The state has a long history of aircraft production, dating back to the early 20th century, and the museum showcases a number of examples of these homegrown aircraft. Visitors can see a Ford Trimotor, a three-engine airliner that was built by the Ford Motor Company in the 1920s, as well as a number of other aircraft that were produced by Michigan-based manufacturers such as Boeing and General Motors.

In addition to its collection of aircraft, the museum also features a number of interactive exhibits and displays that explore the history of aviation in Michigan. Visitors can learn about the state’s early aviation pioneers, such as William B. Stout, who designed and built one of the first all-metal aircraft in the United States. They can also explore the role that Michigan played in the development of the aircraft industry during World War II, when the state’s factories produced thousands of aircraft and trained tens of thousands of pilots and mechanics.

The museum also offers a number of special exhibits and events throughout the year, including air shows, fly-ins, and lectures by aviation historians and experts. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the museum, which provides a more in-depth look at the aircraft and exhibits on display.

For those interested in learning more about Michigan’s aviation heritage, the Selfridge Air Museum is a must-visit destination. With its unique collection of aircraft and interactive exhibits, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the state’s rich aviation history and the significant role that it has played in the development of the aircraft industry.

Exploring the Museum’s Collection

The Selfridge Air Museum’s collection of aircraft is one of the most impressive in the country, with over 50 aircraft and missiles on display. Visitors can see a wide range of aircraft, from vintage biplanes to modern fighter jets, each with its own unique history and significance.

• Aircraft on Display: The museum’s collection includes a number of rare and historic aircraft, including a World War I SPAD XIII, a World War II P-51 Mustang, and a Cold War-era F-106 Delta Dart.
• Michigan-Built Aircraft: The museum showcases a number of aircraft that were actually built in Michigan, including a Ford Trimotor and a number of other aircraft produced by Michigan-based manufacturers.
• Interactive Exhibits: The museum features a number of interactive exhibits and displays that explore the history of aviation in Michigan, including exhibits on the state’s early aviation pioneers and its role in the development of the aircraft industry during World War II.

The History of Aviation in Michigan

Michigan has a long and rich history of aviation, dating back to the early 20th century. The state was home to a number of early aviation pioneers, including William B. Stout, who designed and built one of the first all-metal aircraft in the United States.

• Early Aviation Pioneers: Michigan was home to a number of early aviation pioneers, including William B. Stout, who designed and built one of the first all-metal aircraft in the United States.
• World War II: During World War II, Michigan played a significant role in the development of the aircraft industry, with the state’s factories producing thousands of aircraft and training tens of thousands of pilots and mechanics.
• The Cold War Era: During the Cold War era, Michigan continued to play a significant role in the development of the aircraft industry, with the state’s factories producing a number of iconic aircraft, including the F-106 Delta Dart.

Plan Your Visit

The Selfridge Air Museum is open year-round, with the exception of major holidays. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the museum, or participate in a guided tour, which provides a more in-depth look at the aircraft and exhibits on display.

• Hours of Operation: The museum is open from 10am to 4:30pm, Monday through Saturday, and from 12pm to 4:30pm on Sunday.
• Admission: Admission to the museum is 10 for adults, 5 for seniors and children, and free for children under the age of 5.
• Guided Tours: Guided tours of the museum are available for an additional fee, and provide a more in-depth look at the aircraft and exhibits on display.

In conclusion, the Selfridge Air Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in aviation history. With its unique collection of aircraft and interactive exhibits, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the state’s rich aviation heritage and the significant role that it has played in the development of the aircraft industry. Whether you’re a history buff, an aviation enthusiast, or just looking for a unique and educational experience, the Selfridge Air Museum is a great place to visit.