A new aviation museum has taken flight in Oklahoma. The Caldwell Collection opened at Mustang Field with an impressive lineup of vintage aircraft, a beautifully restored WWII hangar
The museum currently showcases around twenty airworthy vintage aircraft, with several more under restoration or on their way to join the lineup. What began as a simple search for hangar space and a desire to save a derelict World War II Army Air Forces hangar from demolition soon evolved into a vision for a world-class aviation museum. In just forty-nine weeks, that hangar was completely rebuilt and transformed into a stunning facility.
Negotiations are also underway to preserve a second World War II-era hangar that the airport has requested be relocated. Plans call for the structure to be rebuilt in two halves behind the current hangar, creating additional exhibit space and direct apron access.
Rob Lock has moved his Waldo Wright’s Flying Service aircraft restoration business into the facility. Lock will occupy his own dedicated workshop once he completes the restoration of two more of Caldwell’s aircraft
Lincoln-Page PT-W (NC561M). Discovered in Idaho in “airworthy” condition but unflown for several years, it is expected to become the only example of its type flying once its restoration is complete.
A Curtiss-Wright B-14R Speedwing — one of only two airworthy examples in existence
Mustang Field itself carries historical significance, having served as a U.S. Army Air Corps primary training base during World War II.
A lifelong aviation enthusiast, Caldwell took his first flight as an infant in his father’s airplane and dreamed from an early age of becoming a pilot. Although he postponed that goal while raising a family and building his businesses, he later immersed himself in aviation by acquiring a notable collection of antique aircraft, particularly Waco biplanes. Initially, he shared his passion through an extensive website and participation in fly-in events across the country. When the opportunity arose to relocate his collection to El Reno and restore the historic 30,000-square-foot Hangar 3, Caldwell seized it.
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