Historic Aviation Memorial Museum | Tyler

Historic Aviation Memorial Museum – Tyler, Texas

The Historic Aviation Memorial Museum (HAMM) is a prominent aviation museum located in Tyler, Texas. It serves as a tribute to the historical significance of aviation and showcases a rich collection of military aircraft and aviation-related exhibits. The museum is situated at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport, making it a convenient stop for aviation enthusiasts and those interested in exploring military aviation history.

History of the Museum:

Established: The museum was founded in 1985 as the Historic Aircraft Memorial Foundation, which was later renamed the Historic Aviation Memorial Museum (HAMM) in 2000.

Location: The museum occupies the former passenger terminal of Tyler Pounds Regional Airport. The terminal, constructed in the late 1940s, reflects the architecture of that era and provides a historical setting for the exhibits.

Renovations: After extensive renovations, the museum opened to the public in July 2007. The facility now hosts a wide range of exhibits that highlight aviation history and the contributions of military aviation to global conflicts.

Aircraft Collection & Exhibits:

The museum’s collection includes more than 16 military aircraft, both on display indoors and outdoors, offering a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of military aviation. Notable aircraft in the collection include:

F-104A Starfighter

F-105D Thunderchief

F-111E Aardvark

F-4D Phantom II

MiG-17F “Fresco C”

T-33 Shooting Star

T-37B Tweet

TA-4J Skyhawk

AD-5 Skyraider

FJ-4 Fury

PZL TS-11 Iskra

F-100 Super Sabre

F-2C Buckeye

Huey Helicopter

F9F Cougar

HOS4 Chickasaw

These aircraft represent a range of military roles and eras, including fighter jets, bombers, and helicopters. They are meticulously restored and maintained, allowing visitors to get a close-up view of aviation technology from various periods in history.

Indoor Exhibits:

In addition to the aircraft, the museum houses several other exhibits that focus on various aspects of aviation history, such as:

Alexander Bell and Glenn Curtiss Photographic Collection: A collection that chronicles the development of early aviation and the pioneers who shaped the field.

Helen Mosier: This exhibit features significant contributions to aviation and a historical look at women in aviation.

Aviation Headgear: A display of historical aviation headgear, showing the evolution of pilot equipment and technology.

Elmer Dixson Photographic Collection: Features photographs documenting aviation events and milestones.

Training and Recognition Exhibit: Focuses on the training programs that shaped military pilots and the significance of aviation training in military history.

2nd Lieutenant Stanley P. Mustard Exhibit: A tribute to 2nd Lieutenant Mustard, highlighting his role in aviation history.

Captain John D. Mustard Exhibit: This exhibit commemorates Captain Mustard’s achievements and his contributions to aviation and military service.

Norden Bombsight: A rare artifact that showcases the technology used in bombing missions during World War II.

These exhibits are complemented by a library, a multimedia theater, and a gift shop that offers aviation-themed merchandise.

Visitor Information:

Location:

Address: 150 Airport Drive, Suite 2-7, Tyler, TX 75704.

Contact:

Phone: (903) 526-1945.

Museum Hours:

Wednesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Closed: Sunday through Tuesday.

Admission Fees:

Adults: $10.00.

Veterans and Seniors (65+): $9.00.

Teens (13-17): $7.00.

Children (6-12): $6.00.

Children (5 and under): Free.

Active Military and First Responders: Free.

Group Rates: Special rates are available for groups, and arrangements can be made for educational field trips or large parties.

Events:

The museum hosts a range of events throughout the year, including the popular Rose City Airfest, which showcases flying demonstrations, static displays of historical aircraft, and other aviation-themed activities. The museum also offers airshows and other special events that bring together aviation enthusiasts and the general public.

Educational Programs & Tours:

Guided Tours: The museum offers guided tours, providing in-depth information about the exhibits, aircraft, and aviation history. Knowledgeable staff or volunteers lead visitors through the museum, answering questions and offering insights into the significance of the displayed items.

School Field Trips: HAMM is an excellent destination for educational groups, with programs tailored to engage students with the history of aviation and the contributions of military aviation to world events.

Aviation Camps: The museum offers aviation camps for kids, where they can learn about aviation history, principles of flight, and even build their own model planes.

Additional Information:

Accessibility: The museum is accessible to people with disabilities, with wheelchairs available upon request.

Parking: There is ample parking available near the museum entrance, making it easy for visitors to access the exhibits.

Conclusion:

The Historic Aviation Memorial Museum in Tyler, Texas, offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of military aviation. From its impressive collection of aircraft to its in-depth exhibits on the history of aviation and its pioneers, the museum provides a fascinating look into the world of flight. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a history buff, or someone looking for an educational outing, HAMM is a must-visit destination in Tyler.