an introduction

Greetings folks!

I can’t believe it took me so long to find this site!

I am really an aficionado of WW-I aircraft. Have been all my life which is now almost 41 years. Guess that is a result of my dad being an airplane nut.

Anyway, I am a former corporate pilot and history buff who now works in finance. I have aided in building many aircraft, mostly composite, but some Vans work and wood work as well – (I have a small wood shop in my third car garage – my “other” hobby) Not an A&P, some used to classify me as a “utility mechanic” – that is, say an A&P’s aide –or unlicensed A&P…..anyway, I used to joke that I had to fly aircraft to support my mechanic hobby.

Which leads me here. Over the years, I have spent a large amount of time “collecting” plans. I have about 15 sets from a long-ez to several bipes (starduster, acroduster, skybolt) a set of Lee nieuport, Sands DR-I, and a set of redfern DR-1.

I also was a charter member of Frank Ryder’s org, and was looking forward to aiding in the construction of the Gotha. Then he met an untimely end, and the organization went as well.

Anyway…. Why am I not building? I just have not found what I really want. I am absolutely in love with the Albatross DV, but heck – that would be a lifetime project!

I am more the type who would like to maintain outward appearance, whilst using modern construction methods and airfoils. Also not really eager to incur the expense of an exact reproduction. A replica is OK with me!

I am really not sold on the aluminum tube and gusset method. (but I would not question building an aircraft out of wood –is that nonsense or what! I know it sounds screwy!) – So the Graham Lee and Airdrome aircraft are really not making me too excited.

Next, at 6’5”, I am a full scale guy – as a gent in Houston (Bill Crist) once said to me. I like the down in the fuselage feeling a great lakes gives me. Not the caricature profile you get when sitting in an 87% scaler.

I am also leery of starting a project that is so time consuming such as an exact reproduction.

Anyway, I am happy to be here, and glad to find you guys. Hope you don’t mind a few dumb questions.

BTW – I am now living outside of Dallas, Tx in a city called Rockwall. No, I would not mind getting my hands dirty, and assisting some other builder either.

Best,

Patrick