Ownership History

[Tom G]

This year as part of the annual my mechanic ordered the CD from the FAA that has all the aircraft paperwork, 337s, ownership transfers etc.

How interesting it was to go through this. I have the logbooks all the way back to the factory test flight but I found many names that were not in any of the books. I log every flight but apparently not everyone does. My airplane had many transfers of ownership from the forties into the fifties. It apparently was sold from the factory to Breedlove Flying Service in Lubbock, Texas who must have been a Taylorcraft dealer because another transfer occurred a few weeks later. It was in Texas through a series of owners until 1960 when it was purchased by a man in NJ. My Dad bought it in 1964. Counting my Dad and my brother I'm owner #18. Interesting stuff!

[Robert Lees]

Re: Ownership History

It is indeed interesting doing this research, Tom

I wrote up as much history as I could find on G-BREY on my website here. Like you, I have all the original logs too.

The original purchase of my aeroplane, NC43640 (now G-BREY) was, in 1946, by a 26-year-old pilot by the name of Robert Edward Davidson, of Charleston, WVa. So maybe he was ex-military? Can I find any history about him, no.

But during my research, I did contact (and got responses from) about six previous owners, some of whom sent me photos.

I also received a response from the daughter of a previous owner of my Taylorcraft, who said that her father (now in his eighties) did indeed used to own my Taylorcraft. He still owns one to this day, and still flies it.

But what ever happened to Mr Robert Edward Davidson, of Charleston, WVa?

Anyone with connections to the military database who might help?

But you are right, Tom, it is interesting doing this research.

Rob

[Forrest Barber]

Re: Ownership History

I think Davidson used to join us for wings & beer at Cornie's on Wed nights.!!! Very humorous bloke if I recall s


JUST kidding!! Rob do you have a photo of Paul Dietz, if not I do!

[Robert Lees]

Re: Ownership History

Hi Forrest,

I have the file photo of Paul Dietz from the TF website (as you know, he was the Test Pilot of my ship), but if you have any other photos, I'd be grateful.

Rob

[Forrest Barber]

Re: Ownership History

ooops I forgot that had been posted for all to see. rather late over there ahh what!
The www.rodmanlibrary.com go the Alliance Memories and use search for Taylorcraft or Duke Iden still has a lot of photos and many more coming with the new equipment we have coming on a grant.
Still in office sorting out wires , going home soon for a spot of tea!

[Robert Lees]

Re: Ownership History

Not yet late just approaching 11 pm here.

I'll have another look at the Rodman Library as you suggest; I'd forgotten about that.

Thanks, Forrest.

Rob

[Tom G]

Re: Ownership History

Rob, thanks for your reply. I checked out and enjoyed your site very much. You compiled a very interesting history on your aircraft. I wish there was a way we could find out how our individual planes were equipped when new, colors, paint scheme etc. When I repaint my plane I'd love to do it up totally original.