The annual Wings & Wheels Spectacular is the Museum's longest running event, now celebrating its 37th season. “This was the first event the Museum ever held back in 1975, when more than 5,000 people brought their antique autos and engines to our fledgling Museum,” says Museum Director Charles Chiarchiaro. “It is always one of our most anticipated shows of the year because of the variety of things to see and do. This show is exciting for all ages and interests.”
This year's Aerobatic Air Show will be held both days from 1:30 to 3:00, and feature high-speed performances by Kendal Simpson in his Pitts Model 12 and Dan Marcotte in his Ultimate 200 biplane. Both pilots are skilled performers with and renowned for putting on an exciting show. Jim Parker will put on a show in an aerobatic Salto Glider and his son, Jimmy Parker, will add a new performance in his Pitts S2B airplane.
A highlight of the event will be the appearance of several World War II-era aircraft including a P-51D Mustang, B-25J Bomber and a Japanese Zero. The planes are owned by the Houston-based Texas Legends Flying Museum (TFLM) that flies their growing collection of original World War II aircraft to Maine each summer. The P-51D Mustang arrives at the Museum on July 28 and will be on display throughout the week. The B-25 and Zero will fly-in for each day of the event.
One ride aboard the P-51 Mustang will be auctioned each day of the event. Plane rides aboard a few of other visiting aircraft as well as the museum's Stearman biplane will be auctioned each day also. A lineup will be announced on each show day.
A scale replica of a World War II German dive-bomber, a Stuka JU87, will also fly in on Saturday.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early for the air show, since flying times could be adjusted slightly earlier or later, depending on weather. At the end of each day's performances, the flightline will be open to allow the public access to the planes and pilots.
In addition to all the overhead excitement, visitors and car lovers will be treated to a variety of antique and classic automobiles. Car clubs of every vintage and make have been invited and any one with a pre-1992 vehicle is invited to exhibit for free.
On Sunday, more than 100 custom cars and motorcycles are expected as part of benefit ride for the Miles for Mills fundraising event. The cruise is named for Travis Mills who in April 2012, during his third tour of duty of Afghanistan, was critically injured by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. His recovery and positive attitude has been an inspiration to many.
A highlight of the ground vehicle displays will be Dan Marcotte's 8270 A/BG Streamliner, a land speed racer that recently topped 300 mph at the Bonneviile Salt Flats in Utah.
The Museum will demonstrate antique automobiles from its collection. Hop on board a Model T-Ford and be taken for a free spin around the museum grounds. Young children can practice their driving skills in the Kids Corral area, which features pedal cars and pedal planes. Special children's activities, including our popular Styrofoam plane workshop and Do-It-Yourself Art Gallery, are planned for each day
Rain or shine, visitors will have access to the Museum’s indoor collection of dozens of antique cars and aeroplanes. The Museum 's newest exhibition MGs & Microcars showcases a unique collection of vehicles from the 1920s, 30s and 40s.
Event admission is $15 for adults. Children under 18 and Museum members are free. All new and renewing members who sign up at the event will be entered in a drawing for a biplane ride aboard our 1941 Stearman. Drawings are held at noon and at 3 pm. The Museum Store will be open and features a large inventory of books, diecast models, children’s items and more.
Gates open at 9:30 am. Food and refreshments, provided by French & Brawn Marketplace, will be available at the Caboose Pets are not allowed in the Museum or outdoor exhibit area.
Open daily, year-round, the Owls Head Transportation Museum is located at 117 Museum Street (off Rt. 73), two miles south of Rockland.
I had the privilege to attend last year’s Wings & Wheels Spectacular, and I was completely amazed. I vowed to witness this year’s event but unfortunately I was tied to another commitment. I’d appreciate it if you could post some pictures here. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteSincerely,
Jon @ Volvo in Brisbane