Nell, the Aeronca C2 that led last year’s parade of planes (read about that here ), recently took her first flight after moving to the Aeronca Haven—a hangar built with passion and purpose by our Aeronca friend to house a significant collection of Aeronca aircraft. His mission is not only to preserve the aircraft but to represent the breadth of the Aeronca line in one dedicated space.
Over the past year, our Aeronca friends have made numerous trips to bring aircraft, engines, and memorabilia back to the Haven. There’s still more to come, but having a flyable representation ready for this year’s Aeronca Convention at Middletown (MWO) feels like a huge emotional victory for them both.
While Middletown isn’t too far from our home airport, for Nell, it’s a true cross-country flight. Getting her there safely was no small feat. In the weeks leading up to her departure, our Aeronca friend prepared diligently—checking the fittings, inspecting the fabric, and ensuring the 37-horsepower Aeronca engine was ready to go. He even started the engine a couple of weeks before the convention and reported no issues.
The plan for Nell’s first flight was simple: stay close to the field and circle the airport in case anything needed adjusting. The restorer and I had hoped to witness the flight, but as often happens, life had other plans. We were working at the restoration shop when a text came through—photos of Nell aloft, sent by an airport friend.
Later, another friend and his wife shared more details. The flight lasted about 20 minutes. It started off sounding a little rough but quickly smoothed out and settled into a strong rhythm as Nell circled overhead. The restorer wasn’t surprised—he explained that it’s common for an engine to sound uneven after sitting unused for a while.
Talking with our Aeronca friend afterward, his goal was to fly Nell before everyone came into town. He’s looking forward to seeing her in the air again during the upcoming convention. There’s even hope that she’ll join the Aeronca C3—another beautiful piece of history currently cared for by a friend nearby. Photos from past conventions show the C2 and C3 flying in formation; perhaps that tradition will continue.
The Aeronca Convention is especially meaningful as it’s held at Middletown, where Aeronca production moved in 1939 after beginning at Lunken Field (LUK). It feels like a homecoming for these little aircraft.
Nell, like all C2s, represents Aeronca’s beginning. Built in 1929, the C2 was the first aircraft produced by the Aeronca Aircraft Corporation. With its single seat and top speed of just 80 miles per hour, it’s a reminder of aviation’s early days—and how far we’ve come.
What strikes me most is not just the airplane, but the people behind it. The small, steady steps our Aeronca friends have taken—often without recognition—have built momentum. The work isn’t finished, but they’re closer than ever.
And perhaps more importantly, they’ve created memories and friendships along the way.
This kind of stewardship—quiet, persistent, and grounded in passion—teaches all of us.
A casual conversation in passing becomes a teaching moment.
A shared cup of coffee becomes encouragement to keep going.
In this place, surrounded by dedication and knowledge, I’m constantly reminded what’s possible when community and care take flight.
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