George Meadowcraft, now of Jackson, also provided invaluable information along the way. So many people volunteered their help and really a lot of people dedicated their spare time to help put it together. And put it together they did-just three days before the 1993 International Experimental Aircraft Association Convention in Oshkosh, to be exact, where it was named the Grand Champion Antique Aircraft. From there it was stored in the couple's hangar in Ionia. They really weren't sure 'what to do with their beloved biplane, until they came to see the new Van Andel Museum Center, Turner said.
Kids can just gaze at it and dream about flying.
To me, it's perfect. The plane was purchased from Steen and Turner with a generous donation from the Jay and Betty Van Andel Foundation. Installation in the Galleria was completed in the Fall of 1995. Combined with West Michigan's own role in aviation history, the plane's deep Michigan roots made it a perfect addition to the museum's collection, said Christian Carron, Curator of Collections. In addition, not only were there various manufacturers here, but the significant local entrepreneurs of the day invested heavily in the development of the airplane.